Exchanging Club Banners

 O ne of the more colorful traditions of Rotary is the exchange of club banners. Rotarians traveling to distant locations often take banners to exchange at make-up meetings as a token of friendship. Many clubs use the decorative banners they have received for attractive displays at club meetings and district events.

By 1959, exchanging banners had become so popular that the RI Board of Directors was concerned the practice would be a financial burden on clubs. It urged Rotarians to “exercise discretion, moderation, and measured judgment in making provision for such exchanges.”

The approximately 20,000 banners in the Rotary History and Archives collection reflect clubs' hometown pride and their connection with the international organization.

In addition to incorporating the Rotary emblem, banners often include symbols or imagery of a club's town, region, or country. Others represent local craftsmanship or cultural traditions by displaying leatherwork, weaving, embroidery, or hand-painted designs.

If you have plans to travel, make a point of making up at a club in the city or country where you visit.  You will have a great time, learn how things are done in other clubs, and meet a bunch of friendas in the process.  Ask Jim Fitzgerald or Linda Endicott help you locate a club that meets during the days you will be there, and which is convienent to your travel destination.  then, pick up one of our banners and take it along with you and ask to trade banners, and bring their banner back and we will put it on our club banner display.