The Boys’ Brigade was founded by Sir William Alexander Smith in Glasgow on the 4th October 1883. It has now grown to be a worldwide movement working with millions of children and young people for over a century.

Our Objective
"The advancement of Christ's kingdom among Boys and the promotion of habits of Obedience, Reverence, Discipline, Self-respect and all that tends towards a true Christian manliness."

Our Motto and Emblem
“Sure and Steadfast”
(This is taken from the bible in Hebrews 6 vs 19)

Key Dates

1854 - William Alexander Smith born (27th October)
1883 - BB Founded in Glasgow (4th October)
1886 - First BB Camp (Tignabruaich)
1908 - Scout Movement Formed (by Baden Powell, developed from the BB)
1909 - William Alexander Smith knighted (July)
1914 - Sir William Alexander Smith died (10th May)
1917 - Boy Reserves started
1926 - Amalgamation of The Boys' Brigade with The Boys' Life Brigade
1933 - Jubilee Celebrations
1976 - World Conference (of The Boys' Brigade) formed
1983 - Centenary Celebrations
1993 - Junior Section 75th Anniversary (previously called 'Life Boys')
2002 - World Conference renamed to Global Fellowship of Christian Youth
2004 - 150th Anniversary of the Founder's birth
2008 - 125th Anniversary of The Boys' Brigade
2011 - 125th Anniversary of Camping in The Boys' Brigade