New to the Goodman Edson Observatory

New exhibits and activities will debut at this year’s Goodman Edson Observatory (GEO). The GEO’s staff is very excited to share these new discoveries and offer new activities to conference guests!

When the OA’s founder, E. Urner Goodman, retired, he was recognized as the Honorary National Chief of the Order of the Arrow. He was presented a unique fawn skin leather that will be on display for the first time in more than two decades. Every conference guest and staff member will want to be sure to see it at the GEO.

Breaking barriers of history in the 1930’s, Emerson James is the presumptive first African American Vigil Honor member. The Order of the Arrow recently acquired several of Emerson’s personal items that reflect his Scouting and OA experiences, including his Vigil Honor sash and patch vest with early Chicago segregated Scout patches included. These items and more will be part of his exhibit in the GEO.

Conference guests will have the opportunity to visit a new exhibit called “In Memorium.” This exhibit is a place to remember our brothers who have passed and their impacts on our lives. Guests can write names and memories in books which will be set up for that purpose.

Come and watch a painting come to life at the GEO. Josh Hunt, the Order’s Artist in Residence, will be painting and interacting with GEO guests throughout the duration of the conference. The painting, which is entitled Onward and Upward, will serve as a source of inspiration for GEO guests. Stop by to see Josh’s progress!

Finally, be sure to stop by and get your photo taken in one of our photo booths. The booths will be equipped with special backdrops and you can send the photos to yourself via text or email. Also, bring a leather belt, Nalgene water bottle, or other brandable item with you to the GEO so that you can get the new and exclusive GEO brand.