In 1920, a young engineering student at the University of Wisconsin named Lewis Kessler began his service with the Four Lakes council of the Boy Scouts of America. A former Navy bugler, Lewis pursued the formation of multi-troop drum and bugle corps in the Madison area. On December 3, 1920 the organization formed as the Madison Boy Scouts Drum & Bugle Corps and had their first public performance on May 30, 1921. An active rehearsal and performance schedule was kept through 1925, after which the corps operations were less consistent and eventually ceased. In 1937, a group of businessmen were inspired to again have a drum & bugle corps in the Madison area. Under the counsel of Lewis Kessler, now a professor at U.W., the corps was re-established on February 8, 1938 under the direction of E.J. Hess and assisted by C.H. Beebe. Soon thereafter, C.H. would take over as director, a position he held until his passing in 1968.
‍
Forging past its humble beginnings, the Madison Scouts has established itself as a premier youth performing arts organization on the modern drum and bugle corps scene. “Proud, Loud, and Pleasing the Crowd”–a mantra of the corps–the Scouts are known for their entertainment-focused programs that consistently bring audiences to their feet.

Today’s corps boasts over 150 performing members selected from an audition process that spans the course of several months. Maintaining a diverse membership, performers join the corps from across the globe each year.