"A just appraisal of the movement cannot be made without giving a measure of consideration to what Rotarians themselves think of their organization. Aside from natural bias, they ought to be the best judges. What value do Rotarians place upon membership?
There are indications from which conclusions can be drawn. Rotary is thirty years of age. Although there has been little more than one year of Rotary for every century of the Christian era, there are at present nearly four thousand clubs. The clubs therefore range from one to thirty years in age.
Since February 23, 1905, the day when the first Rotary club had its first meeting, up to the present time, comparatively few clubs have given up their charters. When one considers the ephemeral nature of many organizations, the longevity of Rotary clubs is surprising, particularly so in view of the fact that all clubs must be active in order to retain their charters. Even during the depression, Rotary has held its own remarkably well. At the present time the increase in the number of clubs and the increase in the membership of existing clubs, steadily continues.
But how about attendance? Do the members attend, or do they merely hold membership?"
RGHF since 11 October 2000
What Paul Harris Said, is our longest running feature, started in December of 2001. His writings are timeless and speak to Rotary leaders and visitors at www.whatpaulharriswrote.org
RIP 13/14 Ron Burton with RGHF Executive Chair/History Nevine Abdelkhalek
Hear the history message to RGHF from RI President 2013/14 Ron Burton at www.1905society.org
(Click on Ron's photo, then see the video at the bottom of that page.)
Recorded at the RGHF Annual Meeting & Awards Breakfast, June 2013 at Lisbon, Portugal.
History Day at RGHF, honoring the First 100 Clubs of Rotary
Newark #49
Newark #49The Rotary Club of Newark, New Jersey was organized in September 1910 through the efforts of Frederick M. Payne, a local attorney.Mr. Payne had been visiting in Chicago where he learned about the Chicago Rotary Club --Club No.1 --founded in 1905. He was so enthusiastic about the Rotary idea that he called a few of his friends together to organize a similar club in Newark. The incorporation papers were signed by Dr. Franklin H. Van Winkle, Frederick M. Payne, George H. Mutchler and John H. McKeon.
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Answer a one question survey: "We must find a handful of Rotarians who will dedicate their lives to 'history,' so that thousands more might dedicate their lives to Rotary." RGHF annual meeting - Montreal. From RGHF.org (this poll will remain open indefinitely)
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