History
of the Lions |
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The International Association of
Lions Clubs began as the dream of a Chicago insurance man Melvin Jones,
who wondered why local business clubs -- he was an active member of one
-- could not expand their horizons from purely business concerns to the
betterment of their communities and the world at large.
Jones'
idea struck a chord within his own group, the Business Circle of Chicago,
and they authorized him to explore his concept with similar organizations
from around the United States. His efforts resulted in an organizational
meeting at a local hotel on June 7, 1917.
The 12 men who gathered there overcame a natural sense of loyalty to their
parent clubs, voted the "Association of Lions Clubs" into existence,
and issued a call for a national convention to be held in Dallas, Texas,
USA in October of the same year.
Thirty-six
delegates representing 22 clubs from nine states heeded the call, approved
the "Lions Clubs" designation, and elected Dr. William P. Woods
of Indiana as their first president. Guiding force and founder Melvin Jones
was named acting secretary. Thus began an association with Lionism that
only ended with his death in 1961.
The first
meeting of the League City Chapter of the Lions Club was called to order
by president Phillip T. Wright at The League City Coffee Shop at 7:00pm
on April 10, 1952. Twenty-two members were in attendance. |
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