Scouting the Joplin, Missouri area has been a very strong part of the community, dating back to 1913 when the Webb City YMCA sponsored a troop. IN 1916 the troop moved to The First Presbyterian Church of Joplin also chartered a troop in 1916. It should be noted that both Springfield, Missouri and Joplin applied for Scout Troops in 1913. Joplin not only received permission to start troops but to have a Council. The Joplin Charter is dated October 18, 1916 and started the Scouting movement in southwest Missouri.