Brief histories of the "First 100" Clubs

Rotary Club of Buffalo #28

Rotary International District 7090

The Rotarian 1913

By 1910, Rotary had grown to number sixteen dubs with 1500 members across the continental United States. With the organization of the Winnipeg, Manitoba Club in Canada in 1911, Rotary became international. In the same year, the Rotary Club of Buffalo was formed, receiving Charter Number 28. Burt Pfeiffer, who had been introduced to Rotary on a business trip to Pittsburgh, enthusiastically proposed the idea to fifty-five business and professional men. They became charter members, with Burt assuming the responsibilities of president of the fledgling club. The slogan, "Service Above Self," was eagerly embraced, our membership grew rapidly, and in 1913, the Rotary Club of Buffalo hosted the International Convention.  (Featuring the "Pink Goat")

Several past presidents of Buffalo Rotary have gone on to serve as District Governors: Walter Head, Harry Rockwell, Lincoln Beale, Eugene Lerch, Paul Williams, Charlie Fogel and Jack Hoyt. Two of the men, Walter Head and Charlie Fogel were later elected Directors of Rotary International. Walter Head became President of Rotary International in 1939-1940 while a member of the Rotary Club of Teaneck, New Jersey

"Empire State" First 100 Clubs

NY6

Buffalo 28

Rochester 36

Syracuse 42

Binghamton 64

Albany 68