Club History Corner 2-15-2016
On December 24, 1925, “a number of prominent citizens” gathered at the Westbrook Tavern at 1 o’clock to discuss and “take some definite action towards forming a business men’s club” to best fit the city’s needs. 15 men met that day at 810 Main St in downtown Westbrook: Paul Smith, hardware; Nels F. Nelson, Clothier; Henry S Cobb, printer; Wade L. Bridgham, Attorney; Hale M. Dow, Florist; Harry FG Hay, Funeral Director; Fran A. Chase Jr. Coal; Paul Fraser, Recreation; Harry Higgins, Electric Transportation; James A. Lewis, Public Schools; Richard G. Raymond, Drugs; Carroll M. Richardson, Postal Service; Arthur G. Worthington, News Paper; Edwin B. Carr, Boots & Shoes; Granville C. Shibles, Osteopathic Physician.
Westbrook Tavern Hotel 1928 - Westbrook Historical Society archives
Our charter was issued on March, 8, 1926. On April 6, 1926, the Westbrook Rotary club observed a ladies’ night at the Congress Square Hotel. Official presentation of the charter was made at that time. Presentation of the charter was made by Past President William B. Jack of the Portland Rotary Club, representing Eaton D. Sargent, Governor of the 8th Rotary District. It was accepted by Harry F.G. Hay, president of the Club on behalf of 25 charter members.
Greetings were extended by Edward L Pickard, President of Westbrook Kiwanis Club and addresses or remarks were given by Ralph O. Brewster Governor of Maine; Austin H. MacCormick of Bowdoin College and secretary of the Brunswick Rotary club; Fred D Gordon, President of the Portland rotary club. Rev Roderick A. Macdonald pastor of the Warren Congregational Church was the toastmaster. The program was broadcast on WCSH radio between 7 and 8 PM.
Our club continued to hold regular meetings at the Westbrook Tavern on Tuesdays at 12:30PM until March 1936 when the Tavern closed. After that, for about 50 years, we met at the Dunn St Legion Hall. We moved to the Westbrook Regional Vocational Center after that. If you know in what year we made that move to the WRVC, please contact President Christine with details.
Moving to the modern era, here is a great picture of our first woman president, Jane Beever 2001-2002, and her son Jason Beever 2003-2004 & 2016-2017. Photo from a meeting in 2003-2004. Thanks to Jason for sharing.
