History of Rotary

The first Rotary Club in the world was organized in Chicago, Illinois, USA, on February 23, 1905 by Paul P. Harris, a young lawyer, who gathered together in the spirit of friendship and understanding, a group of men, each of whom was engaged in a different form of service to the public.  The basis of that membership - one person from each business and profession in that community - still exists in Rotary.  At first, members of the new club met in rotation at various places of business of the members and this suggested the name “Rotary.” Since 1905, the ideas of Paul Harris and his friends have become ideals which have been accepted by men and women of practically all nationalities and of many political and religious beliefs. 

Wherever Rotarians gather, you will find assembled under the Rotary umbrella those business leaders who are committed to community service.  Today there are Rotary clubs in some 204 countries and geographical regions.  The universal acceptance of Rotary principals has been so great that there are now over 32,912 Rotary clubs, which have a membership of over 1.2 million. 

The objectives of Rotary in every country are the same - the development of fellowship and understanding among business and professional people in the community, the promotion of community-betterment endeavors of high ethical standards in business and professional practices, and the advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace.  Rotary clubs everywhere share the basic ideal, the “ideal of service,” which is thoughtfulness and helpfulness to others.

More Rotary History from the Rotary Global History Fellowship
What Paul Harris Wrote/ Said - famous speaches, resource material, books, and video clips