Classifications of the Original Fifteen, Early Troublesome Problems, and a Horse…

Imagine for a moment the resulting alchemy from the pooled talents and resources of a landlord, abstractor, attorney, business manager, clergyman, efficiency manager, editor, doctor, insurance broker, motor manufacturer, music manager, university secretary, farmer, banker and steel ball manufacturer.

Such were the classifications of the original fifteen. From the outset they created the Club’s unique “town and gown” makeup by officially addressing “troublesome problems” enforcing membership rules limiting University of Michigan membership to one or two.

Flexibility of membership rules was construed by officers after a responding letter from the Rotary General Secretary stated membership “is entirely in the hands of your board of directors.”

First year club work reported by Secretary Sink found membership “on the right side of practically all desirable civic and public endeavors.” America’s entry into WWI during year two found many local Rotarians taking up governmental service. Club war contributions included $50.00 for soldiers’ books and equipment, $182.50 for French war orphans, and $125.00 to purchase a horse for a Colonel.