From Aug. 18 to 28, 1955, Niagara-on-the-Lake was abuzz with energy as it welcomed the 8th World Scouting Jamboree — the very first jamboree held outside of Europe. Nearly 11,000 Scouts from 68 countries descended on the Commons, along with a staggering 250,000 spectators. And while most arrived by bus, train, or plane, one determined Scout pedalled his way to town — cycling 24,000 kilometres from Colombia just to take part.
For 10 unforgettable days, the Commons Scouts learned new skills, maintained their campsites, forged lifelong friendships and discovered Niagara’s juicy peaches, which were offered up like a buffet — “All you can eat!” Off-site adventures took them to the Canadian National Exhibition, Niagara Falls and Queenston Heights.
Of course, an event of this size needed medical backup. Parliament Oak School was transformed into the Jamboree hospital, staffed by nine doctors, two dentists, a matron, 17 nurses and 52 support staff — all working tirelessly to keep the Scouts in good health. This photograph shows just some of the medical and nursing staff at the hospital.