04/02/2026
Have you ever wondered how the Red Deer became a Camp Cutler icon?
The Origin of “Red Deer Day” at Camp Cutler by John C. Reed
Hugh Malcolm Stevenson’s lifelong love of Scouting began in 1930 when at the age of 12 he joined Troop 20. He attended the old Camp Pioneer on Seneca Lake. In 1936 he was elected into the Order of the Arrow, and served on the Charter Committee that founded and organized Ty-Ohni Lodge. He was part of the original Name Committee, Constitution Committee, and By-Laws Committee. In 1939 he was elected as the second Lodge Chief, and in 1940, along with two other Ty-Ohni Arrowmen attended the National Lodge Meeting held at Camp Twin Echo in Ligonier, PA. As an adult, he was Scoutmaster of Troops 20 and 31. He received the Vigil Honor, and was Lodge Advisor for nine years and Section Advisor. During the war years of 1944 and 1945 he kept the Lodge going by serving as Lodge Chief Pro-Tem. He also received the Scoutmaster’s Award and Key, District Award, Silver Beaver and the American Legion Award. One of Malcolm’s Legacies to our Area’s Scouting program was the founding of Red Deer Day at the old Camp Cutler, a tradition that is still carried on today. Malcolm’s nickname once was Red, since he had red hair. While serving as Camp Ranger, he befriended a small deer so it happened. Red’s deer evolved into Red Deer Day in the early 1950’s. Malcolm was the last of the original Ty-Ohni charter members. He never lost his interest in the Order of the Arrow. He attended and spoke at our Lodge Banquet in 1996. He will be remembered and Missed by all.
Red Deer Weekend is coming up soon! Join us May 2–3 at J. Warren Cutler Scout Reservation for Red Deer Weekend and help prepare Camp Cutler for the summer season.
Saturday (May 2) is Tools Day for adults, focused on campsite prep, projects, and maintenance—no experience needed, and meals are provided.
Sunday (May 3) is Family Day, welcoming Scouts and families for service projects plus fun activities like archery, fishing, and hiking. Overnight options are available for Saturday.
Registration closes April 23 so sign up today!
RSVP here:
https://scoutingevent.com/397-100217