The Rotary Club of Laurens currently has around 50 members. Membership has declined over recent years because of the economic downturn.
Membership
Two members with over 60 years of service to Laurens Rotary passed away in recent years. BUCK BABB and JOHN FARIS had been pillars of strength for the club for decades and filled many roles. Additionally, John was Governor of District 7750 in 1983 - 84. Pictures of Buck and John are in the gallery section.
In November 2011, Richard Townsend who had served the club for more than 46 years passed away. Richard was most active in the area of membership development.
Club Loses Long- Serving Members
Rotary Club of Laurens, South Carolina, USA
Membership
Four members of the club have more than 40 years service: BLAND ROPER, HERBERT ADAMS, RUSS BURNS, and LEON PATTERSON.
Other Old-timers
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Membership 1923 - 2010
Laurens Rotary began with 16 charter members in 1923, grew slightly, then barely hung onto its charter during the Great Depression. After slight growth during the 1930s, the club during WWII again almost collapsed as members went into the war effort. From the 1950s, however, growth was steadily upward until it peaked at 82 members in 1993, then began a decline as economic conditions in the area worsened.
At the club's 25th anniversary in 1948, five of the charter members were still in the club and are shown at right: Dr. J. H. POWE, CHARLES FLEMING, ALBERT C. TODD (first club president), M. L. SMITH, and GEORGE WRIGHT.