New Egypt resident Jacob Taylor joined a very elite group when he was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout during a ceremony held at the New Egypt firehouse on April 5.
Surrounded by family, friends and fellow Scouts from Troop 109, the 17-year-old is proud that his name is now on a list which includes leaders in the fields of medicine, politics, science, entertainment, literature and even space exploration.
Jacob began his Scouting career in 2004 when he joined Pack 9 as a Wolf Cub. During those 10 years, he served in a number of leadership positions, earning a total of 50 merit badges.
President and Mrs. Barack Obama, Gov. Chris Christie, The U. S. Military Academy at West Point, the National Rifle Association, and Commissioners of the National Football League, National Hockey League, and the Philadelphia Flyers sent letters of congratulation to Jacob for his achievement.
Assemblyman Ronald Dancer offered congratulations and presented Jacob with a Joint Legislative Resolution from the State of New Jersey.
Jacob’s Eagle Scout project was a very ambitious one — the restoration and renovation of the well house located on Lakeview Drive in the center of town. The building, given to the New Egypt Historical Society in 1992 by the Elizabethtown Water Company, was once a centerpiece of the town. It provided fresh spring water to residents and the many summer visitors who filled local boarding houses during the early 1900s. During the 1950s, the building served as the focal point for block dances held on the streets which surrounded it.
Having suffered the ravages of time and weather as well as minor vandalism, the building was sorely in need of repair. Jacob approached the Historical Society with his proposal, requesting help with research on the history and design of the building. In addition to conducting research, Jacob was required to obtain permits, materials and funding and to enlist and supervise volunteers during the course of the construction phase. Society member Martin Mains, a local resident and carpenter, provided technical and hands-on assistance throughout the project. In recognition of his help during the process (begun and completed during 2013), Jacob presented Mr. Mains with a pin and very heartfelt thanks for all of the time and effort he donated.
Thanks to Jacob and the volunteers who assisted him, the building stands beautifully restored — looking very much as it did when it was constructed. The Historical Society presented Jacob with a framed letter of thanks as well as a lifetime membership and a copy of Dorothy Mount’s book, “The History of New Egypt and Plumsted Township.” Additionally, the society donated two plaques to be placed on the well house citing Jacob for his efforts and describing the history of the building.
Future plans for the building include displays featuring early photos of the area.
Jacob’s proud parents, Mary and Lee Taylor, as well as his sisters Kim and Katie were at the April 5 ceremony along with other family members to help him celebrate the special occasion.

