The Badge Archive

Across Generations: GSUSA 1990s

⚠️ This page is under construction

The 1990s carried forward the Worlds to Explore badge structure, but with a fresh energy that reflected the era’s growing focus on individuality, empowerment, and real-world skills. Girls could still earn badges grouped into five themed “worlds”—The Arts, The Out-of-Doors, People, Today and Tomorrow, and Well-Being—but the number of available badges expanded dramatically.

Interest Projects for Cadettes and Seniors flourished, offering deeper dives into topics like Leadership, Global Awareness, Stress Management, and STEM. Brownies continued earning Try-Its, and Daisies focused on the Promise and petals. Uniforms became more relaxed, and patch blankets became a popular way to showcase fun patches from events, service projects, and travel.

The 1990s also saw a rise in girl-led planning, with more emphasis on troop government, community service, and personal goal-setting. It was a time when Girl Scouts leaned into leadership—and had a lot of fun doing it.

What’s Different

What Was Different from Earlier Decades

  • Badgework still followed Worlds to Explore: Girls earned badges in themed categories like “Out-of-Doors” and “Well-Being,” with colorful borders and hands-on steps.
  • Technology began to appear: Troops started using email and early websites for communication and planning.
  • Uniforms continued to evolve: Mix-and-match styles expanded, and girls had more freedom to personalize their look.
  • Council programming diversified: More girls participated in career exploration, STEM activities, and multicultural events.
  • Alumni groups gained momentum: Adults who had grown up in scouting began forming legacy networks and support communities.

What’s Different from Today’s Girl Scouts

  • Journeys and Take Action Projects weren’t introduced yet: Girls focused on standalone badges and troop-led service.
  • Digital tracking didn’t exist: Badge records were still kept in paper handbooks and binders.
  • Ambassador level didn’t exist: Seniors were the final level until the early 2000s.
  • Council mergers were underway: Many local councils began consolidating, reshaping the Girl Scout map.

What’s the Same

  • Campfire songs and friendship circles
  • Girl-led projects and community service
  • The Girl Scout Promise and Law
  • Lifelong connections and intergenerational mentorship
  • Pride in uniforms, badges, and traditions

Featured Profiles

Coming Soon
We’re gathering stories from Girl Scouts active in the 1990s. If you have photos, handbooks, or stories from this decade, we’d love to include them.

Memory Snapshots

Coming Soon
Quotes from scouts active in the 1990s will appear here as interviews and submissions are verified.

Suggested Resources

Have a photo from the 1990s?

We’d love to feature vintage snapshots! Submit your troop pics or camp memories here.

Browse More or Submit Yours

Looking for another decade? Back to the Across Generations Page →
Got a memory to share? Submit a 1990s story →

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive Facebook community for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Girl Scout leaders. Whether you’re seeking advice, fresh ideas, or meeting plans, you’re in the right place! Let’s inspire each other, share our experiences, and make every troop meeting a memorable adventure.

for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive community for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout leaders. This group offers solutions to keep older scouts engaged in scouting amidst their busy lives. Share strategies, tackle challenges, and exchange ideas for fun, meaningful activities that resonate with teens and build lasting connections.

Find out how you can support The Badge Archive!

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Tia Kennard