Firecrafter is a camp rank system unique to the Crossroads of America Council that promotes the high ideals of friendship, leadership, and service. Implemented in 1920 out of Camp Chanktun-un-gi (now Camp Belzer), founders Francis Belzer and Stanley Norton designed the three ranks of Firecrafter to motivate scouts to commit to long-term camping for at least three years. Through challenging requirements and the intrigue of the Mystic Fire, the Firecrafter program aims to both sharpen fundamental scouting skills and strengthen ties to scouting as a whole.
The three ranks of Firecrafter – Camper, Woodsman, and Firecrafter – are offered at the Firecrafter Shelter here at Ransburg. Unlike most areas, the Firecrafter area has only open program, meaning those wishing to work on a rank can visit the shelter anytime they are free and the area is open, rather than scheduled activity times. The Firecrafter ranks can only be earned while at camp; the requirements for the desired rank must be completed by the end of a Scout’s week of camping. It is recommended to only work on one rank per year at camp.
For more information regarding the rank requirements, history, events, and council of Firecrafter, you can visit the Firecrafter Website.
Ranks of Firecrafter
Camper
The rank of Camper is intended to be done during a Scout’s first year at camp, though a Scout can complete it later if they choose. This rank is especially encouraged for first-year campers as it overlaps with many Scout rank requirements
Woodsman
The rank of Woodsman is completed during a Scout’s second year at camp. Its requirements build upon that of Camper, advancing wood tool safety, fire building, and knot tying, while adding basic nature and first aid skills.
Firecrafter
The rank of Firecrafter is highly recommended to be completed not before a Scout’s third year at Ransburg, as younger scouts may not meet the level of physical or emotional maturity required. Specific to this rank, the candidate must be a First Class Scout and attend a weekend Ritual experience after their week-long candidacy at camp is successfully completed. Preparation for a Scout’s candidacy before attending camp is recommended and encouraged, as the requirements for Firecrafter are significantly more difficult than those of Camper and Woodsman.
Minisino
Minisino is a Miami Indian word meaning “tried and proven.” It is the high honor bestowed upon those exceptional Firecrafters who go above and beyond to represent the ideals of friendship, leadership, and service. To receive this honor, the candidate must first be nominated, and then complete a two-week candidacy at a council camp. The requirements of Minisino are known only to Minisino and Minisino candidates.