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After a number of the businessmen of Thurmont met informally at lunch for a number of months
in early 1929, they decided to explore the need for a civic
organization to serve the community. A committee was formed to get in touch with several
such groups operating in other parts of the county. It didn't take them long to decide upon
the Lions Club as their choice. With the help of some members of the Frederick Lions
Club, who became their sponsor, a promotional meeting was held in the old Town Hall
on October 23, 1929 and an open invitation was made for prospective members.
The original signers for the local club included Lester S. Birely, Victor M. Birely,
Dr. Morris A. Birely, Allen Creager, John Creeger, Wilber R. Freeze, William J. Stoner,
Harry W. Ruch, H.A.C. Sylvester, and Raymond Creager. The actual charter was presented
to the club at the November 1, 1929 meeting with the following additional members
listed on the charter: Carl S. Gall, Parmalee D. Ewing, Frederick Tresselt,
H.Q.Miller, Ray R. Taylor, Claude A. O'Toole, Dr. James K. Gray, D.S.Weybright,
Ernest P. Hammaker, and Leonard R. Waesche.
The orginal meetings were held in the Mrs. Ruth Eyler Restaurant located across the
street from the earlier day Thurmont Library on Water Street. Since the restaurant's
closing shortly thereafter, the meetings were held ever since at the Cozy Inn (Restuarant).
The Lions Club was largely representative of the business men and agricultural operations
of the community. Over years the organization has evolved to include other members of the
community who were interested in taking part actively in civic, commercial, social, education
and moral welfare projects. Today, many on the club's roster of active members include
interested women in the community. For 73 years, the club has been an exceptionally
good forum for discussion and action on matters of public interest.
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