Last year, the teenager set out to build a small structure for the Clermont Historic Village and Museum. Missing from this unique attraction was the one place everyone turned to in 1890, the family outhouse.

Reid took his idea from concept to fruition doing everything from raising the necessary funds and acquiring the materials to organizing the labor and constructing what was once considered a modern convenience.

Reid not only successfully completed the project for which he was honored last week. He had to overcome obstacles not heard of in the 1890's. The structure had to meet building codes including a design by a registered architect. Reid enlisted the aid of architect Nick Jones giving both the young man and the elder the honor of designing and building what is believed to be the only code compliant outhouse in the State of Florida. Or possibly anywhere else.

While the new outhouse replica brings chuckles to visitors, it represents an integral part of the daily lives of the residents of the area. The "convenience" is located between the Townsend House, built by the area's first permanent black settlers, and the Kern House built for one of Clermont's early mayors.

For Reid, this is the and end to a long journey toward the most honored achievement in scouting, the attainment of his Eagle Scout badge. Reid started as a cub scout and has achieved each badge in succession.

On Saturday, May 4, Jamaal Reid took the oath as an Eagle Scout in front of his family, scoutmasters and members of Troop 784 in a Court of Honor at the Historic Village Train Station.