The townsfolk of Hickory are concerned because their boys are rowdy and undisciplined. The issue is raised, not for the first time, at a town meeting. Starting a scout troop has been suggested, and is supported by rich eccentric Miss Hetty and pretty bank clerk Vida Downey, but none of the men are willing to be Scoutmaster. Until, that is, eager newcomer Lem Siddons volunteers. His motives are mixed (he is attracted to Vida) but he soon organizes the boys, taking them hiking and teaching them knots and woodcraft from the Scout Manual. He even wins over tough loner Whitey, who becomes a competent patrol leader.
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Miss Hetty allows the scouts to build a cabin on her property by the lake. Their first ramshackle attempt collapses, but Lem's good humour encourages them to start over. His kindness and public spirit win Vida's heart. Happily married, they become secondary parents to the boys, especially the neglected ones like Whitey. Lem considers resigning when some ill-informed gossip prompts Whitey to run away, but the scouts' parents turn up in force to persuade him he is needed. Rather overwhelmed, he agrees to stay on. Eventually the whole town acknowledges that he has done a wonderful job and that scouting has transformed the once out-of-control youngsters.
This humorous family film has a good mix of dramatic, emotional and amusing moments along with some rousing songs.
The review of this Movie prepared by Maureen Evans
