H.J. Homann

Harold J. "H.J." Homann was the Scout executive for Blackhawk Area Council during the first few years of Camp Lowden. He came to our council in 1943 from Alton, Illinois.

His field executive was Frank Collins. Frank went on to become Scout executive in several other councils and then spent several years at the national BSA headquarters in Texas before his retirement.

Mr. Homann spearheaded the plan to get equipment and buildings for the camp from the dismantling of Camp Grant. These acquisitions included the showerhouse, the "H" building dormitory, and the ranger’s house. He was called "Showman Homann" because he directed and staged major shows at national jamborees.

Mr. Homann’s son, Hal Homann, was on the camp staff and was later the pool director. Hal recalls that one year some of the staff members had been drafted to go to Korea. Because they were really down on the idea, his father came down and gave a great pep talk.

In 1953 the new dining hall at Camp Lowden was dedicated to H.J. Homann in honor of his 25th Anniversary as a professional Scouter.

H.J. Homann continued to serve as the Scout executive until 1961. He passed away in 1963.