daniel carter beard was an american illustrator, author, youth leader, and social reformer who founded the sons of daniel boone in 1905. he later merged this organization with the boy scouts of america (bsa). born on june 21, 1850, in cincinnati, ohio, beard worked as a surveyor before moving to new york city where he became involved in various social reform movements. in addition to his work with the bsa, beard was also an accomplished illustrator and author, contributing artwork and stories to numerous publications throughout his career. he passed away on june 11, 1941.