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THE YEAR IS 1923 AND ROTARY BEGINS IN NEWTON MASS

Over 200 individuals attend the “charter night” with a large contingent from the new club’s sponsor.

Club meeting locations have changed, a few times over the years.  A prime location was selected, in 1978, where the club continues to meet.

Early precedents continue to exist, including attendance requirements and no compensation for speakers. The overriding commitment, however, is to improve the quality of life for all citizens of Newton, the surrounding area as well as our national and international communities.

From its infancy in 1923, the Rotary Club of Newton began its community service by raising money and providing scholarship support in many ways.

In later years it expanded this effort by establishing a student loan fund. The early years were devoted to local charitable projects

Despite the depression of the 1930's, Rotary continued to assemble. By sustaining itself through that unsettled period , Newton Rotary became strengthened.

The 1940's was a period when the club shifted a great deal of its emphasis from local community projects to involvement with the Second World War.

Programs included education in industrial and civic responsibilities, as well as the military draft and civil defense. Clothing and food drives were undertaken  during and after the war.

Club service enhanced the fellowship of the members. Activities included  holiday parties and annual excursions to major league baseball games.

In 1950, Newton Rotary had a lead role in the dedication of  a community, within Newton, primarily established for World War II veterans and their families. 

The Newton Rotary Club increased its community service effort in the 1950's with added  support and capital campaign gifts to organizations like the  YMCA, and the local hospital.

 The 1960's saw a continuation of the club's efforts to serve the community in a meaningful way. Grants were provided to many of the city's non-profit agencies in amounts of $100 to $500 annually.

The Newton club was instrumental in sponsoring new clubs in neighboring towns.

I know, much of what I just said seems familiar,   and  much of it seems new.

Actually, I took these accounts from the history of the NEWTON, MASSACHUSETTS  ROTARY  CLUB which was  chartered  in the same year as we were. 

Although slightly different from our own experience, the history seems  incredibly similar.  

Both Newton Clubs were chartered 90 years ago, in 1923.