Aldie Ruritan Records 1972-2001 1973-1999

Access and use

Location of collection:
Thomas Balch Library
Thomas Balch Library
208 West Market Street
Leesburg, Virginia 20176
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Alexandra S. Gressitt
Phone: (703) 737-7195
Fax: (703) 737-7195

Summary

Creator:
Aldie Ruritan
Abstract:
The collection consists of secretary and treasurer's records from 1973-2001. It includes membership lists, attendance, and minutes as well some loose bank statements and other documents.
Language:
English

Background

Scope and content:

The collection covers 1973-2001 and includes secretarial and treasurer records; however, not every year includes all record types. Secretarial records were kept in a book provided by the national office, "Official Secretary's Book," and include attendance, membership lists, minutes, invitations to membership, correspondence, and other items of interest to members. Most financial records were kept in a book provided by the national office, "Official Treasurer's Book." However, there are loose bank statements, IRS forms, cancelled checks and bond records.

Biographical / historical:

Ruritan is a national organization dedicated to "improving communities and building a better America through Fellowship, Goodwill and Community Service." The first Ruritan Club was chartered 21 May 1928, in Holland, Virginia. It is a civic service organization made up of local clubs in small towns and rural communities. Sixteen members are required to form a Ruritan club, usually with the assistance of an existing club. The name "Ruritan" was suggested by Daisy Nurney, a reporter for the Norfolk Virginian-Pilot newspaper. The word is a combination of the Latin word for open country "ruri" and small town "tan," interpreted as pertaining to rural and small town life.

Aldie Ruritan of Aldie, VA was formed in January 1952 with Clay Wood of Nokesville, VA, district governor of Ruritan, as first speaker. Officers included Edwin Skinner, President, A. L. Hutton, Vice President, Jim Taylor, Secretary, Jack Hutchison, Treasurer, John diZerega, Sergeant-at-Arms, and the Rev. Albert Fritter, Chaplain. The first meeting was held at Aldie High School

Excerpts from Aldie Ruritan Minutes from January 1973 through December 1993, as abstracted by Wynne Saffer, include: donations to Little League, Cub Scouts, George C. Marshall Fund, and Aldie Fire Department, dress code, ladies night, purchase of a flag, authorization to build two pit privies on the Little League diamond, many "delicious" dinners and picnics, sponsorship of Aldie Harvest Festival and many speakers of local interest.

Acquisition information:
Gerald Keatinge, Aldie, VA
Physical description:
1.65 cu. ft