Three years later, the Bolesławiec ZHP District was established, with Bolesław Wilkosz becoming its first commander. Unfortunately, at the beginning of 1951, as a result of political reforms, the District was dissolved. At that time, scouting was ideologically subordinated to the Union of Polish Youth.
Instead of learning about God, honour and the homeland, scouts absorbed values consistent with the Communist Party line – the state and collective work were to be the most important. Traditional symbols, such as the Scout Cross and the Scout Promise, disappeared. New ones, corresponding to communist ideology, were introduced in their place.
In 1956, following political changes, the Union of Polish Youth was dissolved. A year later, the Polish Scouting and Guiding Association was reactivated and undertook efforts to restore the former scouting values. The 1960s and 1970s were a period of intensive troop development – camps were organised, and scouts began taking part in numerous social and cultural events.
In 1977, the Bolesławiec District was named after the Grey Ranks, symbolically returning to pre-war ideals and highlighting the patriotic heritage of scouting.
Following the political transformation, ZHP regained greater independence. Today, the District brings together many troops and conducts extensive educational, patriotic and social activities. Scouts actively participate in city ceremonies, rallies, charity campaigns and camps, continuing the tradition initiated by Hubert Bonin.
text: Maja Pietrusiak, Bianka Makówka, Anna Ziółkowska, Emilia Kwolek, Hanna Rzeźwicka, Leonia Szykuła