Tim Caster – Silversmith / Engraver
I began my metalworking adventure as a small boy, using whatever bits of metal I could find (copper wire, tin cans, construction waste, etc.) By the time I was a Boy Scout (1968) – in a very Blue Collar troop in Miami, Florida – I was attempting more ‘serious’ projects. For one I managed to talk one of the Scout Leaders who was a plumber into saving me scrap sections of nickel-plated brass pipes; it was the only source of brass I could come up with. These pieces of pipes I managed to open with a hacksaw, flatten and then dome with the brass showing and make into my first brass concho belt (3” conchos with a graduated drop!) On the underside you could still see the cut threads from the pipe’s joints. It was an item I wore with great pride, needless to say. And perfect for my eventual Old Time Sioux dance clothes.
I’ve managed to progress my skills since those days of scraps and rusty hand tools. Over the years I’ve worked most aspects of the goldsmith, silversmith and jeweler’s craft. These days my focus is on buckles, belts and Scouting-appropriate sterling silverwork and engraving.
Tim Caster – Boy Scout
My interest in Scouting began at the age of 9 when I was given my older brother’s 1960, 6th Edition, Boy Scout Handbook. I would lay in bed at night reading about all of the amazing camping skills a Boy Scout could develop (I’m still trying to master the bread-on-a-stick.) At the age of 12 one of my 6th Grade buddies told me I should join his Scout troop. It was a poor troop, but full of very dedicated dads who made sure we went camping one weekend a month during the school year and a week of summer camp during the summer. It was the camping that grabbed my heart and imagination. It still is; there’s nothing I love better than a wilderness adventure.
By the time I was in High School I had made Eagle, attended Philmont on a “provisional” trek, worked at summer camp and was deeply involved in the Order of the Arrow, especially in the American Indian Activities – which still captivates my time and interest. I received the Vigil Honor at the age of 19 during my term as Lodge Chief of O-Shot-Caw Lodge, #265. I was given what I find to be the almost embarrassing name of Wulaptonen Takachsin – which was translated as “Well-Spoken Leader” .
Tim Caster – Vigil Brother
Personally, I think there is no greater honor than the recognition of one’s peers. These are the people who know us best and for them to make the declaration that we possess a future of Service to our fellow man – this is a gesture without parallel. The Vigil Honor is bestowed, “not for what you have done, but for what you will do.” Now that’s a serious recognition.