Troop History

Boy Scout Troop 4: A Century of Scouting Excellence

Location: Homestead Park United Methodist Church, Munhall, PA

Our Story

Troop 4 began in 1918 and was officially chartered with the Boy Scouts of America in March 1920. Originally meeting at the Homestead Park Vol. Fire Company #1, the troop later found its permanent home at Homestead Park United Methodist Church.

For over 100 years, Troop 4 has been a trailblazer in the scouting community. Today, under the leadership of Scoutmaster Brian Stramaski and Committee Chairman Ray Hyland, it remains one of Pennsylvania's oldest, continually operating scout troops—and part of an exclusive group of U.S. troops over a century old.

Historical Highlights

• Early Beginnings: Chartered as Troop 4 of Mifflin Township and later known as Troop 74 of Pennsylvania, Troop 4 represented the 4th troop chartered in the Mifflin Township area.

• 1930s Growth: While other local troops struggled, Troop 4 thrived, growing to over 170 scouts by 1935—making it one of Western Pennsylvania's largest troops.

• 1950 Expansion: Partnering with Homestead Park United Methodist Church, Troop 4 established Cub Scout Pack 4, welcoming younger boys to scouting. Pack 4, now led by Cubmaster Sue Wright and Committee Chairman Ruth Stickle, celebrates its 70th anniversary as one of Western Pennsylvania's oldest packs.

Adapting Through Time

• Community Reach: Troop 4 started in Munhall but now serves 10+ communities, including West Homestead, Duquesne, and Dravosburg. Scouts even join from across the North and South Hills.

• Modern Challenges: Once part of a region with 45 troops and packs, only 6 remain today. Despite this, Troop 4 continues to thrive, ready to embark on another century of scouting.

Preserving Our Legacy

With over 10,000 scouts passing through its doors, Troop 4 and Pack 4 boast a rich history. However, the passage of time has taken a toll on our heritage. While we recently rediscovered our original 1920 charter, much of our story remains fragmented.

We’re calling on our community—past scouts, leaders, and parents—to help us preserve our history. Share your photos, programs, newspaper clippings, memorabilia, or scouting stories to ensure that future generations understand the legacy of Troop 4 and Pack 4.

How You Can Help

Visit our Preserve History page to learn how to contribute and keep our scouting heritage alive for the next 100 years.