Daniel Carter Beard, 1850-1941

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Historical Marker #50 in Kenton County marks the boyhood home of Daniel Carter Beard, an early leader of the Boy Scouts of America.

Although Beard was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on June 21, 1850, he soon moved to nearby Covington, Kentucky. After a public school education, Beard enrolled at Worrall's Academy where he studied civil engineering. Upon his graduation in 1869, Beard worked as a surveyor in Cincinnati before moving to New York City in 1874.

A talented artist, Beard spent several years traveling across the country, where he surveyed land, drew animals, and built a reputation as one of the best known portraitists of his day. Beginning in 1882, he and his brothers ultimately published sixteen books of illustrations. Besides art, Beard was passionate about the outdoors. In Covington in 1905, Beard founded the Sons of Daniel Boone, the earliest forerunner to the Boy Scouts. His model was a major influence on the Boy Scouts of England, and, eventually, the Boy Scouts of America, which was incorporated in 1910.

Affectionately known as "Uncle Dan," Beard was a charter member of the Boy Scouts of America’s executive committee. He served as national Scout commissioner for thirty years. Beard is responsible for designing the Scout hat, shirt, neckerchief, and many of the merit badges. He received many awards for his work, including the gold eagle badge, and the first medal for outstanding citizenship by the state of Kentucky. Also, Mount Dan Beard in the Alaskan Denali Range was named in his honor.

Beard died at his home in New York on July 11, 1941. President Franklin D. Roosevelt was among the pallbearers at Beard's funeral. His childhood home in Covington was listed as a National Historic Landmark in 1965.