The History of the Rotary Club of Nederland

Diligent efforts by Joe Richardson of Nederland, Phil Spencer and Les Speir of Groves, Texas, as well as District Governor's Representative Curtis Keith, had worked to make this club a reality. The formation was accomplished by each member of the Groves Rotary Club contacting a qualified person with the same classification in the Nederland geographic boundary. The Rotary Club of Groves continued to provide support for many years.

None of the twenty five charter members remain active in our club.

Throughout the years, the Club, under the able leadership of its presidents and directors, has continued to prosper and render immeasurable service to the community and The Rotary International Foundation.

In recent years this club has successfully met its Polio Plus goal as well as our District goal of fifty cents per meal donated to Hunger Plus. Our club bulletin, "The Windmill", has been an award winning publication in the District and is now edited by Craig Stark. In 1989-90, under the leadership of President Jess Fuller, the Club was recognized as Outstanding Rotary Club in the District. In 1990-91 the Club won a District attendance award and was also named a 10,000% Club for contributions to The Rotary Foundation. The Club received Presidential Citations many times in its history which speaks well of the past presidents and leadership of our Club. In 1999-2000, under the direction of President Jim McNeil, our Club was recognized and presented with another District Attendance Award (for clubs under 50 members) and a Presidential Citation.

1999-2000 was a very special year for the Club with our own Janis Shaw serving as District Governor. Although demanding at times, this was a genuine honor for our Club and Janis made us very proud.

Under the direction of President Julie Dabney, the Club received another Presidential Citation and awards for Community and Vocational service for Rotary Year 2003-2004.

Of our current 31 members, 30 are Paul Harris Fellows. The Club has had a total of sixty seven Paul Harris Fellows and five Benefactors. All Paul Harris Fellows are awarded from funds received through personal contributions. Currently, the Club has seven District Roll of Fame award recipients. They are Glen DeCuir, John Ludwig, Johnny Shaw, Marvin Kebodeaux, Dr. Chester St. Romain, Bob Smith and Jim McNeil.