Known for having produced more Black Eagle Scouts than any troop in the country, Houston’s Troop 242 began a year after the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Founded by the Rev. William A. Lawson of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, the troop’s goal has always been to instill Scouting values to boys in the city’s Third Ward neighborhood.
Last year, five members of the troop became Eagle Scouts, bringing the total to 221. Aaron on Scouting recently caught up with Troop 242 Scoutmaster Sedric Myers to talk about their success — and how other troops can do the same.
AOS: Kids have multiple distractions and options for extracurricular activities. How does your troop and pack continue to thrive?
Sedric Myers: We are very visible, and not only at church doing our fundraising. We serve as volunteers for all activities — flag ceremonies, assisting seniors and veterans, and any other calls for service. We also have enhanced our social media presence with everything that we do.
AOS: Even through a global pandemic, Troop 242 continued to produce Eagle Scouts at a high rate. What made you so consistent during that time?
SM: The rich history and our legacy continue to grow because lifelong members of the church, former Scouts, and Eagle Scouts pass along the values to their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We’re successful with first-time Scouts because of our community — friends of friends. We are active and visible.
AOS: When you talk with families about joining, how much do you talk about the history and legacy of the troop’s beginning?
SM: Most of the time, our history is not shared first. We focus on what we’re doing in our community now and all the fun our Scouts are having. The history and legacy come up when families see our Eagle Scout Court of Honor and when the Eagle Scouts return.
AOS: Troop 242 produced 15 Eagle Scouts from 2024-25. The last time the troop produced that many Eagle Scouts in a two-year span was 2003-04. What’s causing this momentum?
SM: We do a lot. It probably seems like we’re everywhere. It’s an expectation to take advantage of every opportunity that Scouting offers. Scouts and their families are aware of those opportunities, and we consistently provide updates and feedback about our program.
AOS: How much do you keep in touch with adults who went through your program? What do they say about their experience?
SM: As Scoutmaster, it’s my job to personally invite those people to participate in conferences, assist with activities such as the troop patrol draft and give advice on Eagle Scout projects with our Life Scouts. We’re fortunate that a large percentage of them stay involved because their experience was positive. They’re happy to help.
AOS: You were recently highlighted in several newspaper and television reports when you celebrated your 60th anniversary. What was the reaction within your council?
SM: Our Scouts are used to the attention. This generation — with aid from all the social media platforms — watches themselves every day. But there definitely was a sense of pride and appreciation, especially among our parents and adult leaders.
Photos: Sedric Myers
