Our Chalet

From WikiGuider

Our Chalet is one of the four Guiding World centres, which can be found in the swiss alps

It was decided at a meeting of the world committee of WAGGGS held in Hollandin 1929 that somehwere should be built for all Guides and Scouts around the world to share. It was decided to build this centre in Switzerland, using money donated by Mrs Helen Storrow, a Girl Scout leader from the USA, to help find the perfect location Ida Von Herrenschwand was appointed as a Swiss Scout.

Mrs Storrow finally found the perfect location in the town of Aeschi saying “It comes up to all my expectations, here you can find peace for your soul”.

Unfortunately some of the other people who were with Mrs Storrow thought that this would not be a suitable site as the people they were creating this centre for would be more interested in adventure than their soul! After much discussion it was finally decided to suggest the site to the next world conference and that everyone should give their honest opinions about it.

On viewing photos of the area everyone agreed that it was a beautiful site except for one who was advised by Lord Baden-Powell to find a site of her own if she was planning on causing any disruption, she did this willinging and was sent away with a set of guidelines from the committee.

    near to train line
    not too near tourists
    hotels nearby
    suitable for skiing in the winter and climbing in the summer
    not too hight for people with health issues
    nice neighbours

She returned to Switzerland and Bernese Oberland finding the perfect place in Adelboden where Our Chalet now stands. As she stood under the setting sun she thought that not only would this be a perfect place to find adventure but also wonderful for the soul.

On 21 December 1931 the roof of Our Chalet was put on the building before final completition of the oldest of the world centres, which was offically opened by Olave Baden-Powell (the first World Chief Guide) and Mrs Helen Storrow on 31st July 1932.

The Baby Chalet was built for Mrs Storrow who decided that she would like her own small place to receive guests.