An exhibition celebrating 100 of history since the Scouts was founded will open next month.

The two-month long free event will be held at Epping Forest District Museum on Sun Street, Waltham Abbey, from Saturday, August 10 – to Saturday, October 12.

Visitors will explore how Gilwell Park came the worldwide outdoor organisation’s headquarters founded by Robert Baden-Powell.

Images and objects from The Scouts Heritage Collection, which are usually kept in storage, will be on display for the first time.

On the opening of the Scout Association in Epping Forest, Robert Baden-Powell over a century ago, said: “Even one hour spent there will give them ideas, while a weekend, or better still a week, will, I venture to wager, be an eye-opener to many and a heart-opener to all.”

The Gilwell Scouting story began as the world recovered from the First World War, over 46,000 young people had joined during this period, leading to a boom in demand.

However, the conflict had taken its toll and around 7,000 adult volunteer leaders had been killed.

Today approximately 60,000 young people a year visit Gilwell Park Scout Adventure Centre, with over 457,000 under 18 currently part of the organisation.

The Scout exhibition will be open on Monday’s, Tuesday’s, Wednesday’s and Friday’s from 10 am – 4 pm, and on Saturday’s 10 am – 5 pm.

Entry is free however Epping Forest District Museum gratefully welcome any donations received.