Highlights of the Roswell Rotary Club in the 1950s 

The Foundation of Roswell Rotary (1951)

• Location: Roswell, a charming small town accessible via Roswell Road (U.S. Hwy. 19), was a hub of rural charm and history, with antebellum homes still standing after the Civil War.
• Population: In 1950, Roswell's population was just 2,123, with neighboring Alpharetta at 917 and Mountain Park at 15.

The Birth of the Rotary Club

• Charter Night: The Roswell Rotary Club was chartered on April 18, 1951, at Milton High School.
• Toastmaster: Bill Ellis from the Atlanta Rotary Club led the event.

Gifts Received:

• A Rotary gong from President Malon
• A banner from Decatur Rotary
• A gavel crafted from a tree owned by Franklin D. Roosevelt from Warm Springs Rotary.

Key Figures

First Officers:

• George Ray: President
• Charles Foster: Vice President
• Elwyn Gaissert: Secretary
• Guy Webb: Treasurer

Community Impact

• Local Economy: The area was home to several industries, including:
• Southern Mills, Inc.: A textile manufacturer employing 160.
• The Roswell Company: Made men’s trousers, employing 235.
• Banking: The only local bank, Roswell Bank, played a crucial role in community confidence and was established in 1901.

Life in the 1950s

• Cost of Living:
• Minimum wage: $0.75/hour
• New Ford: $1,480
• Gasoline: $0.27/gallon
• Average annual income: $3,709
• Education: Roswell High School graduated just 22 students in 1951 and shared its location with Roswell Elementary on Mimosa Boulevard.

Meetings and Fellowship

• Meeting Locations:
• Initially convened at Moore's Tea Room on Canton Street.
• Later moved to the Lebanon Community Club, where local women provided homemade meals, making meetings a delightful experience.

Memorable Moments

• Fellowship: The importance of community and fellowship was emphasized in meetings, with discussions of various professions fostering connections among members.
• Rotary’s Growth: The club's rapid growth led to the establishment of new clubs, including the Alpharetta Rotary Club in 1983.

Legacy and Recognition

• Charter Members: All members who joined in 1951 are considered charter members, setting a strong foundation for future generations.
• Community Contributions: The Roswell Rotary Club actively participated in local fundraising events, including the Aubrey Greenway Charity Golf Tournament, which raised significant funds for community needs.

Conclusion

The 1950s were a formative decade for the Roswell Rotary Club, characterized by community engagement, growth, and a commitment to service. As we celebrate our 75th anniversary, let’s honor the legacy of those who laid the groundwork for what we are today!