Every era of Rotary history
✓ Always free to browseTwelve decades of service, organized into seven eras. Open any era to see the people, places, publications, and events the archive has connected to that period.
Founding Era
From a single meeting in a Chicago office to a national association of clubs — the years that set Rotary’s course.
Early Expansion
Rotary crosses oceans and continents: new clubs, the first international conventions, and service through the Great War years.
Depression and War Years
Through depression and world war, Rotary holds its clubs together and lays the groundwork for postwar rebuilding.
Postwar Growth
Explosive postwar growth: new districts, new countries, and the Foundation’s rise as a force for international service.
Global Service Era
Rotary goes truly global — service programs span continents and the fellowship prepares for its boldest public-health pledge.
Women Admitted to Rotary
A changed fellowship: women join Rotary worldwide and PolioPlus mobilizes the largest private health initiative of its era.
Modern Rotary
The archive’s living era — digital records, a global membership, and the final push to end polio.