Boy Scouts Auction Rockwell Art Collection for Survivors

The Boy Scouts of America is taking a significant step in its efforts to compensate victims of sexual abuse by auctioning off its renowned Norman Rockwell art collection. Featuring over 300 works and valued at approximately $60 million, the collection includes historic pieces that have graced magazine covers and scouting materials. The proceeds will help fund to the organization's multibillion-dollar bankruptcy settlement, aimed at providing financial redress to the thousands affected in the past. Artworks from the collection, which include iconic images by Rockwell and others, will be auctioned by Heritage Auctions in Dallas over the coming years, beginning with several pieces this week.

This development follows the Boy Scouts' 2020 bankruptcy filing amid numerous abuse claims, a plan allowing operations to continue while addressing survivors' needs. A significant aspect of the resolution involves the sale of Boy Scouts' properties and contributions from local councils and insurers. Approximately 82,000 claims were filed, with compensation based on the severity of abuse. Retired bankruptcy judge Barbara Houser highlighted the collection's liquidation as a "significant" move towards justice for survivors. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)