Mountaineer Boys State marks 86 years of civic leadership at Jackson's Mill
WESTON, W.Va. (WBOY) — The 86th session of the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State is being held this week at WVU Jackson's Mill, continuing a tradition of leadership and civic education for West Virginia's youth.
A few hundred high school students from across the Mountain State are taking part in the week-long program, which immerses them in hands-on learning about government operations and the responsibilities of citizenship. Participants, referred to as 'citizens,' actively engage in the formation and operation of mock city, county and state governments.
'We started here in 1936, West Virginia has the second oldest Boys State in the nation. Illinois started it in 1935, we thought it was a good idea, went out and talked to them and we got the second charter back then,' the Director for American Legion Mountaineer Boys State Robbie Robinson said. 'We're able to claim that we're the only camp or only Boys State program in the United States that has it at the same place since its inception.'
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Throughout the week, students take part in legislative sessions, court proceedings, and law enforcement demonstrations. They also attend assemblies, join recreational programs, and explore career opportunities in various fields. Guest speakers often including government officials, veterans, and community leaders share insights on leadership and service.
'Sometimes civics isn't touched on a whole lot in school anymore. So here they get a different perspective on it, a real worlds perspective on it, and they get a chance to actually do it,' Robinson added. 'These boys will get experiences that they won't receive in other places, however this is something that will stick with them for the rest of their life.'
Organizers added the experience they receive while at the camp leaves a lasting impact, helping to shape what could be future leaders while fostering a deeper understanding of the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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