Summit Boy Scout Looking For Community Support On GoFundMe

SUMMIT, NJ — A boy scout from Summit is looking to raise money for his eagle project that will educate visitors of the Reeves-Reed Arboretum on the history of the land it inhabits.

The Boy Scouts of America recognize the Sunday that falls before Feb. 8 — National Boy Scout Day — as "Scout Sunday," which is a time to recognize and comment local Boy Scouts who are pursuing Eagle Scout rankings and making meaningful contributions to their local communities.

Ryan Richardson of Summit created a GoFundMe to build a replica Revolutionary War Beacon Signal Tower at Reeves-Reed Arboretum as part of his service project. He has already raised $3,070 and is close to reaching his ultimate goal of $3,600.

On his GoFundMe page, Richardson wrote that he enjoys history and is building the replica with help from family and friends.

"During the Revolution, Beacon Signal Towers were used to call out to the militia, indicating the approach of the British, this allowed the militia time to organize a defense," Richardson wrote.

"These beacons were placed at high points in the countryside (like at Reeves-Reed) so that people miles around could see the smoke once they were lit. 23 of these beacon towers were built in NJ during the war. "

Richardson is also putting a bronze plaque at the site, which will explain the story of the replica so that visitors of the Arboretum can learn more about the history and significance of the land the arboretum now sits on.

People can still donate to Richardson's fundraiser at this link.

Learn more about National Boy Scout Day here.

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