DALLAS — Within the realm of Norman Rockwell’s artwork lies a glimpse into the essence of American life, particularly through the lens of scouting. One vivid painting portrays a family joyfully welcoming a proud Boy Scout back from camp with his duffel bag in tow. In another scene, a Cub Scout energetically stands on a chair to measure his older brother’s chest, who has carefully annotated his fitness achievements on the wall. These heartwarming images serve not only as reflections of the scouting experience but are also emblematic of the Boy Scouts of America’s (BSA) historical connection with American culture, having graced magazine covers, calendars, and even been utilized for war bond promotions. However, in an effort to provide restitution for sexual abuse survivors, the BSA plans to auction off these treasured artworks starting next week.

The collection, consisting of over 300 pieces, notably features a significant number of works from Rockwell, and is valued at approximately $60 million—a modest amount in light of the organization’s extensive bankruptcy efforts. As part of its restructuring and to compensate survivors, the BSA has also sold various campgrounds and properties. “It is profoundly meaningful that this iconic collection, cultivated by the Boy Scouts over the years, is being liquidated to fund compensation for survivors and provide them with some measure of justice,” remarked Barbara Houser, a retired bankruptcy judge overseeing the settlement trust for the survivors.

Rebranding efforts have also been initiated by the BSA, which recently announced a transition to the name Scouting America, a move aimed at reinforcing its dedication to inclusivity. Now, the organization welcomes both girls and LGBTQ+ youth and leaders into its ranks. In response to a wave of sexual abuse claims, the Boy Scouts sought bankruptcy protection in 2020. The resulting plan, valued at $2.4 billion, is among the largest and most complex in the nation’s history, allowing the organization to continue its operations while providing for the victims. This plan took effect last year.

According to Houser, over 82,000 claims have been submitted during the bankruptcy proceedings, with more than 64,000 individuals completing detailed questionnaires to substantiate their claims. Compensation will be determined by the severity of the abuse experienced by each survivor. “Many survivors have waited decades for acknowledgment of their suffering,” noted Houser. As the trust begins to accumulate more funds, multiple payments may be distributed periodically. Currently, approximately 6,000 survivors have opted for their initial one-time compensation of $3,500, while further settlements are being deliberated for other individuals affected.

In addition to the art auction, funding for the trust is being supported by insurance companies and local Boy Scout councils, with more than 30 council properties sold as of October.

Survivor Tom Krumins had just started to confide in his loved ones about being abused during his middle school years at a South Carolina camp when the bankruptcy was announced. He took considerable time to decide on his involvement in the settlement. “It’s the type of bravery and courage that an Eagle Scout is supposed to show, but it also feels as if you’re severing a part of your identity in the process,” Krumins shared. He emphasized the necessity for the Boy Scouts to reinforce their youth protection commitments, a change that survivors insisted upon before consenting to the bankruptcy plan. Though financial assistance is vital, he stated that preventing future abuse is paramount.

Doug Kennedy, another survivor and co-chair of the committee representing victims in the case, mentioned that over three-quarters of the claimants supported the bankruptcy plan, yet the prolonged legal process has been “agonizing” for many survivors. “For most survivors, this resolution only addresses the bankruptcy itself—it does not alleviate their pain or reclaim what was lost,” he expressed.

The artwork from this historic collection, including nearly 60 pieces by Rockwell, is set to be auctioned by Heritage Auctions in Dallas over the next several years, with more than two dozen items becoming available for bid shortly. Rockwell, who contributed to the BSA’s magazine, Boys’ Life, early in his career, nurtured his relationship with scouting through numerous illustrations for their calendars. One notable painting by J.C. Leyendecker, depicting a Scout using signaling flags, dates back to 1911, just a year after the BSA’s founding. This artwork graced the cover of The Saturday Evening Post and has been widely reproduced on scouting materials. Additionally, Leyendecker’s 1918 portrayal of a Boy Scout holding a sword in front of a flag-adorned depicture of Lady Liberty was adapted into a war bond recruitment poster. “Many artists played a vital role in defining the culture and ideals of the Boy Scouts,” remarked Aviva Lehmann, senior vice president of American art at Heritage.

For the last four years, these artworks have been exhibited at the Medici Museum in Ohio, with previous displays held at the National Scouting Museum.