History of Ryekol

Learn more about Ryekol through the years

Ryekol through the years

Ryekol was officially inaugurated on March 22, 1953, and that date is used to calculate the age of the cabin and the area.

But the work to find a suitable site and build the cabin that stands here today took several years
in advance. Back then, the DDS had several so-called 'leader training cabins'. In North Zealand, there was Storedam, and in Funen, there was Hylkedam. So, of course, there was a need for a cabin in Jutland.

In 1950, the corps leadership decided to purchase a site near Gl. Rye – an old orchard that yielded poor results due to the bad, sandy soil in the area. The land cost between 5,000 and 6,000 kroner.

Several names were considered before landing on 'Ryekol', which is a combination of the name of the area (Rye) and the many hills (rounded hills) that characterize the area.
A construction committee was then formed, tasked with getting the cabin built. Excavation and pouring of the foundation, as well as the laying of paths and places, were carried out over several
work weekends, where scouts came as far as from Silkeborg to help out.

The cabin itself was built by local craftsmen. And on March 22, 1953, the cabin was inaugurated.

The story doesn't end there

The first leader training course was held during Easter 1953, just a few weeks after the cabin's inauguration. And the cabin has been an active scout cabin ever since, hosting countless outdoor and scouting experiences, including Indaba, Plan Ryekol, Gilwell, and in 2023, Ryekol hosted a 70th anniversary camp.

The cabin is decorated with photos from many of the camps held at Ryekol over the years. If you’re lucky, you might find a picture of a family member, your scout leader, or yourself!

Renovations & expansions

The cabin has also been renovated and expanded since then:

In 1956 and 1963, the surrounding parcels were acquired to expand the Ryekol area.
The kitchen has been renovated several times, first in 1975 and most recently in 2024.
In 1975, an extension was built, the part where today there are leader corridors and toilets.
In 1989-90, the first of Ryekol's shelters was built.
In 1992, the floor in the cabin's large room, BP-Stuen, was replaced after nearly 40 years of faithful service.
In 2025, the second of Ryekol's shelters will be built.
And much, much more.

The large ship's bell in the hallway has been there since the cabin was built, and has just as long
been used to call hungry scouts to meals.

History of Ryekol

Ryekol through the years

The story doesn't end there

Renovations & expansions

Come and experience Ryekol

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