E. Carlton Turnbull, a former member of the Rotary Club of White Plains, was the organizer of our club. Under the leadership of Eddie Cordial and the sponsorship of the Rotary Club of New Rochelle, the Larchmont club was formed. Arvie Elred of Troy was the District Governor.
On December 13, 1929, the thirteen founders received their charge and the Rotary Club of Larchmont was a reality. The following year, Gilbert W Merrell and Dr. Otto Ernst were admitted and in 1935, Harry T Flinn was made a member. Hugh Owens joined in 1938.
The birth of our club at the start of the Depression brought out at once the true Rotary spirit. Some of early members and many in our community required financial aid. At the close of every meeting a hat was left near the exit and those who were able, helped the less fortunate. Medical aid, dental care and legal advice were never refused because of a person's inability to pay. A repair ship was set up where men unable to work were permitted to repair furniture and appliances. Finally, jobs were found, families were again self-sustained and Rotary had put "service above self."
In 1936, E Carlton Turnbull, Ford Anderson and Gilbert Merrell organized a Rotary Club in Mamaroneck. On April 30th of that year, they received their charter and from the very start, made Larchmont Rotary proud of its parenthood.
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