comely bank home of paul and jean harris from 1912 until 1947 and rotary international early meeting...

Comely BankComely Bank

Home of Home of Paul and Jean HarrisPaul and Jean Harris

From 1912 until 1947From 1912 until 1947And And

Rotary InternationalRotary InternationalEarly Meeting PlaceEarly Meeting Place

10856 S. Longwood 10856 S. Longwood DriveDrive

Chicago, IL Chicago, IL

© Paul and Jean Harris’ Home Foundation, 2005 & 2006.© Paul and Jean Harris’ Home Foundation, 2005 & 2006. Photo by PDG Fred OttoPhoto by PDG Fred Otto

View of house from next door View of house from next door entrance on Longwood Drive.entrance on Longwood Drive.

Historical MarkerHistorical Markerissued by the Ridge Historical issued by the Ridge Historical

District.District.Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

Photo by Ms. Yoshiko Urayama, President/Editor-In-Chief, Chicago Shinpo

Entrance to Comely Entrance to Comely BankBank

Paul and Jean on the front steps in the Paul and Jean on the front steps in the 1920s. They named the house “Comely 1920s. They named the house “Comely Bank” because that was the street’s name Bank” because that was the street’s name in Edinburgh, Scotland where Jean Harris in Edinburgh, Scotland where Jean Harris had lived as a child.had lived as a child.

Jean Harris standing in Jean Harris standing in front of their home in front of their home in

1920s.1920s.

Jean Harris in the Jean Harris in the International Friendship International Friendship

Garden.Garden.

Paul and Jean Harris in Japan in February 1935. Paul and Jean Harris in Japan in February 1935. Photo taken at the stone lantern at the Tokyo Photo taken at the stone lantern at the Tokyo Kaikan where they lunched with Umekichi Kaikan where they lunched with Umekichi Yoneyama, founder of Rotary in Japan, and other Yoneyama, founder of Rotary in Japan, and other distinguished Asian Rotarians. distinguished Asian Rotarians.

In 1935, Japanese, Koreans and Chinese Rotarians In 1935, Japanese, Koreans and Chinese Rotarians presented Paul and Jean Harris with a similar presented Paul and Jean Harris with a similar Japanese Temple Lantern. Japanese Temple Lantern.

This gift had a place of honor in front of their This gift had a place of honor in front of their home.home.

Paul in the driveway at Paul in the driveway at Comely Bank, 1942.Comely Bank, 1942.

Paul and Jean in the enclosed Paul and Jean in the enclosed sunroom in 1942 overlooking sunroom in 1942 overlooking the International Friendship the International Friendship Garden.Garden.

Paul and Jean Harris Paul and Jean Harris under the arbor in their under the arbor in their back yard.back yard.

Paul is putting out bird seed in his back Paul is putting out bird seed in his back yard with Silvester Schiele, one of the yard with Silvester Schiele, one of the

four founders of Rotary and first four founders of Rotary and first President of Chicago Rotary One.President of Chicago Rotary One.

The path from Comely Bank to The path from Comely Bank to Schiele’s home was just three Schiele’s home was just three

houses south through the houses south through the backyards.backyards.

Paul looking out the Paul looking out the kitchen window at some kitchen window at some birds in his back yard.birds in his back yard.

Sun room with Sun room with inscription.inscription.

Some of Paul’s Some of Paul’s thoughts….thoughts….


A place of fellowship and A place of fellowship and friendship for all…..friendship for all…..

Jean Harris serving tea to Barney Jean Harris serving tea to Barney Antzen in Harris’ sunroom Antzen in Harris’ sunroom overlooking their International overlooking their International Friendship Garden.Friendship Garden.

Paul Harris in front of the Paul Harris in front of the fireplace with Barney Antzen.fireplace with Barney Antzen.

Paul and John Doctoroff posing Paul and John Doctoroff posing with Doctoroff’s portrait of Paul with Doctoroff’s portrait of Paul in 1943. in 1943.

Many early meetings were held in Many early meetings were held in the basement at Comely Bank. the basement at Comely Bank. Pictured is the last meeting held in Pictured is the last meeting held in December 1942.December 1942.

Paul and fellow Chicago One Paul and fellow Chicago One members singing during a members singing during a meeting in the basement.meeting in the basement.

Paul and Chicago One Rotarians Paul and Chicago One Rotarians telling stories at a meeting in telling stories at a meeting in

1942.1942.

The Rotary Board Room in the Basement of The Rotary Board Room in the Basement of Comely BankComely Bank (l-r) Robert C. Fletcher, Montague Bear, Harry L. Ruggles, Paul Harris, (l-r) Robert C. Fletcher, Montague Bear, Harry L. Ruggles, Paul Harris, Silvester Schiele, Bernard E. Arntzen and Rufus F. Chapin. Silvester Schiele, Bernard E. Arntzen and Rufus F. Chapin.

(From "The Golden Strand" Rotary /One)(From "The Golden Strand" Rotary /One)

The last picture of Paul and The last picture of Paul and Chicago One Rotarians in front Chicago One Rotarians in front of the fireplace in 1942.of the fireplace in 1942.

Saying good-bye after an Saying good-bye after an evening of reminiscing.evening of reminiscing.

After Paul and Jean After Paul and Jean Harris…Harris…

Mr. & Mrs. John Huck lived in the Mr. & Mrs. John Huck lived in the house from 1947 until 1974. Mrs. house from 1947 until 1974. Mrs. Huck is pictured below. Huck is pictured below. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

Ken and Shirley Butler with Lisa, their Ken and Shirley Butler with Lisa, their daughter, who lived in the house from daughter, who lived in the house from 1974 until October 2005, and they were 1974 until October 2005, and they were very accommodating to Rotarians over very accommodating to Rotarians over

the years.the years. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden


Attracts International Visitors….Attracts International Visitors….

PRIP Frank Devlyn, Trustee Fumio PRIP Frank Devlyn, Trustee Fumio Tamamura and PRIP Luis Giay in front Tamamura and PRIP Luis Giay in front of Comely Bank in October 2003.of Comely Bank in October 2003.Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

International Rotary visitors International Rotary visitors with the Butlers in October with the Butlers in October 2003.2003. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

The idea of purchasing Comely BankThe idea of purchasing Comely Bank

had been discussed for at least eight had been discussed for at least eight years years

among Rotarians.among Rotarians.

Living room meeting of the Board of Living room meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Paul and Jean Trustees of the Paul and Jean Harris’ Home Foundation at a Harris’ Home Foundation at a planning meeting in Fall 2002.planning meeting in Fall 2002. Photo Photo

by PDG James Aldenby PDG James Alden

Shirley Butler and PDG Fred Otto Shirley Butler and PDG Fred Otto working on the purchase agreement on working on the purchase agreement on February 17, 2004 in the dining room of February 17, 2004 in the dining room of

the house.the house. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

The closing on the purchase The closing on the purchase of Comely Bank May 16, of Comely Bank May 16, 2005. 2005. Richard Porter, Shirley and Ken Butler, Jim Alden, Chairmant, and Fred Otto, Secretary of Paul and Jean Harris Richard Porter, Shirley and Ken Butler, Jim Alden, Chairmant, and Fred Otto, Secretary of Paul and Jean Harris Home Foundation. Photo by PDG James Alden.Home Foundation. Photo by PDG James Alden.

Restoration EffortsRestoration Efforts

Beginning in Fall 2004, plans Beginning in Fall 2004, plans were made to start various were made to start various restoration projects in preparation restoration projects in preparation for possible tours of Comely Bank for possible tours of Comely Bank during the Rotary International during the Rotary International Centennial Convention. Centennial Convention.

Condition of the outside of the Condition of the outside of the house prior to caulking and painting house prior to caulking and painting

in Fall 2004 and Spring of 2005.in Fall 2004 and Spring of 2005. Photos Photos

by PDG James Aldenby PDG James Alden

This is the north side of the This is the north side of the house before it was painted in house before it was painted in

October 2005.October 2005. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

Driveway to the back area along Driveway to the back area along south side of the home in October south side of the home in October 2004 before repairs were made.2004 before repairs were made. Photo by Photo by

PDG James AldenPDG James Alden

Driveway to the back area along Driveway to the back area along south side of the home in June 2005 south side of the home in June 2005 after repairs were made.after repairs were made. Photo by PDG James Photo by PDG James

AldenAlden

Examining the repaired Examining the repaired corner in spring of 2005.corner in spring of 2005.Marc Irwin of the Rotary Club of Delton, Michigan,, Trustees Fred Otto and Bruce Riley. Marc Irwin of the Rotary Club of Delton, Michigan,, Trustees Fred Otto and Bruce Riley. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

PDG Fred Otto power PDG Fred Otto power washing the flag stones in washing the flag stones in the garden on April 16, the garden on April 16, 2005. 2005. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

View of the uncovered flag View of the uncovered flag

stones.stones. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

Members of the Delton, Michigan Interact Members of the Delton, Michigan Interact group who helped begin the restoration group who helped begin the restoration of theof thegardengarden on April 16, 2005on April 16, 2005. . Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

Interact members removing Interact members removing years of accumulated leaves years of accumulated leaves and rubbish.and rubbish.

Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

New site for tree planting New site for tree planting ceremony to be held on June ceremony to be held on June

1616thth, 2005., 2005. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

Front entrance in 2005, after front Front entrance in 2005, after front iron work was re-installed. iron work was re-installed. Photo by PDG James Photo by PDG James

AldenAlden

During the 2005 During the 2005 Chicago Centennial Chicago Centennial

Convention:Convention:1.1. Held ribbon cutting ceremony with over 100 people Held ribbon cutting ceremony with over 100 people

from at least 17 countries in attendance. President from at least 17 countries in attendance. President Glenn Estess, Sr. and PPRIs Frank Devlyn, Luis Giay Glenn Estess, Sr. and PPRIs Frank Devlyn, Luis Giay planted two trees in the front yard of the house on planted two trees in the front yard of the house on June 16, and PPRI Cliff Dochterman planted a tree in June 16, and PPRI Cliff Dochterman planted a tree in the front yard of the house on June 18.the front yard of the house on June 18.

2.2. Held separate re-dedication ceremony of the Held separate re-dedication ceremony of the Japanese Stone Temple Lantern on June 19, 2005, Japanese Stone Temple Lantern on June 19, 2005, which had been given to Paul and Jean Harris in which had been given to Paul and Jean Harris in 1935 by Japanese/Korean/Chinese Rotarians while 1935 by Japanese/Korean/Chinese Rotarians while the Harris were visting Japan.the Harris were visting Japan.

3.3. Hosted over 1,000 visitors during the convention for Hosted over 1,000 visitors during the convention for tours of Comely Bank, (the name given to the house tours of Comely Bank, (the name given to the house by Paul and Jean Harris, for it reminded them of the by Paul and Jean Harris, for it reminded them of the Street and area of Edinburgh Scotland which is Street and area of Edinburgh Scotland which is called Comely Bank).called Comely Bank).

This is the view of the front of the house This is the view of the front of the house after the porch was enclosed by Paul and after the porch was enclosed by Paul and Jean Harris in the 1930s. Photo on June Jean Harris in the 1930s. Photo on June 16, 2005, after some repairs were made.16, 2005, after some repairs were made.

Photo by Ms. Noriko FutagamiPhoto by Ms. Noriko Futagami

PDG Jack Mayo was instrumental in gaining the Rotary PDG Jack Mayo was instrumental in gaining the Rotary Heritage & History Fellowship’s support of the purchase Heritage & History Fellowship’s support of the purchase of Comely Bank. of Comely Bank.

Jack, one of the original trustees of the Paul and Jean Jack, one of the original trustees of the Paul and Jean Harris’ Home Foundation, spoke at the Ribbon Cutting Harris’ Home Foundation, spoke at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Ceremony. Photo by Ms. Noriko FutagamiPhoto by Ms. Noriko Futagami

PDG Brian Andersen, Vice Chairman of the PDG Brian Andersen, Vice Chairman of the Trustees of the Paul and Jean Harris’ Trustees of the Paul and Jean Harris’ Home Foundation, spoke at the Ribbon Home Foundation, spoke at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.Cutting Ceremony. Photo by Ms. Noriko Futagami.Photo by Ms. Noriko Futagami.

Robert Knuepfer, Jr., President of the Rotary Club Robert Knuepfer, Jr., President of the Rotary Club of Chicago One, presenting a copy of the other of Chicago One, presenting a copy of the other Doctoroff painting of Paul Harris to President Doctoroff painting of Paul Harris to President Glenn Estess.Glenn Estess. Photo by PDG Jack Mayo.Photo by PDG Jack Mayo.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony : Ribbon Cutting Ceremony : Jim Alden, Chairman of Paul and Jean Harris’ Jim Alden, Chairman of Paul and Jean Harris’ Home Foundation, Glenn Estess, Sr., President of Home Foundation, Glenn Estess, Sr., President of Rotary International, Luis Giay, PPRI. Rotary International, Luis Giay, PPRI. Photo by Jack Mayo.Photo by Jack Mayo.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Glenn Estess, Sr.; Luis Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Glenn Estess, Sr.; Luis Giay; Frank Devlyn, PPRI; William Boyd, President Giay; Frank Devlyn, PPRI; William Boyd, President Nominee of Rotary International. Nominee of Rotary International. Photo by Jack Mayo.Photo by Jack Mayo.

Sharing a piece of the ceremonial Sharing a piece of the ceremonial ribbon.ribbon.

Photo by Ms. Noriko Futagami.Photo by Ms. Noriko Futagami.

Director Sakuji Tanaka, President Glenn Estess, Sr., Director Sakuji Tanaka, President Glenn Estess, Sr., PPRIs Luis Giay and Frank Devlyn.PPRIs Luis Giay and Frank Devlyn.

Rotarians from 17 countries Rotarians from 17 countries attended the Ribbon Cutting attended the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Ceremony. Photo by Ms. Noriko FutagamiPhoto by Ms. Noriko Futagami

Glenn Estess, Sr., in grey jacket, planting a tree in Glenn Estess, Sr., in grey jacket, planting a tree in front of Comely Bank with the assistance of Paul front of Comely Bank with the assistance of Paul and Jean Harris Home Foundation trustees Jack and Jean Harris Home Foundation trustees Jack Mayo, Brian Andersen, Fred Otto, Robert Knuepfer Mayo, Brian Andersen, Fred Otto, Robert Knuepfer , Jr., and Richard McKay. , Jr., and Richard McKay. Photo by Jack Mayo.Photo by Jack Mayo.

Tree planting: Robert Knuepfer, Jr., Tree planting: Robert Knuepfer, Jr., and Richard McKay, President and and Richard McKay, President and past President of Chicago One past President of Chicago One assisting Glenn Estess.assisting Glenn Estess. Photo by Jack Mayo. Photo by Jack Mayo.

PPRIs Devlyn and Giay planting a PPRIs Devlyn and Giay planting a tree in the front yard of the house tree in the front yard of the house on June 16, 2005.on June 16, 2005. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

PPRI Cliff Dockterman and Past District Governors PPRI Cliff Dockterman and Past District Governors and spouses celebrating in the back yard on June and spouses celebrating in the back yard on June 18, 2005. 18, 2005. Photo by Jack MayoPhoto by Jack Mayo

PPRI Cliff Dockterman and Jack Mayo, PPRI Cliff Dockterman and Jack Mayo, planting a tree in the front yard of Comely planting a tree in the front yard of Comely Bank on June 18, 2005. Bank on June 18, 2005. Photo by PDG Jack Mayo.Photo by PDG Jack Mayo.

Yosiho Gotoh, President-elect of the Yosiho Gotoh, President-elect of the Chicago O’Hare Rotary Club, presided Chicago O’Hare Rotary Club, presided over the re-dedication of the Japanese over the re-dedication of the Japanese lantern at Comely Bank on June 19, 2005. lantern at Comely Bank on June 19, 2005. He has assisted in the research of the He has assisted in the research of the lantern.lantern. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

View of Japanese Stone Temple View of Japanese Stone Temple Lantern looking north from Lantern looking north from

Comely BankComely Bank. . Photo by Ms.Noriko FutagamiPhoto by Ms.Noriko Futagami

Additional view of Japanese Stone Additional view of Japanese Stone Temple Lantern.Temple Lantern. Photo by Ms. Noriko Futagami. Photo by Ms. Noriko Futagami.

Honorable Yutaka Yoshizawa, Consulate Honorable Yutaka Yoshizawa, Consulate General of Japan in Chicago participated General of Japan in Chicago participated

in the lantern re-dedicationin the lantern re-dedication.. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

Some of the participants at the re-Some of the participants at the re-dedication of the Japanese Stone Temple dedication of the Japanese Stone Temple

Lantern.Lantern. Photo by Ms. Yoshiko Urayama.Photo by Ms. Yoshiko Urayama.

PDG Don Knapp, signing the guest registry, PDG Don Knapp, signing the guest registry, arranged for the gift back to Rotary in 2004 of the arranged for the gift back to Rotary in 2004 of the Temple Lantern removed by the previous owners, Temple Lantern removed by the previous owners, Mr. and Mrs. John Huck, who moved the lantern to Mr. and Mrs. John Huck, who moved the lantern to their next home in 1974. their next home in 1974. Photo by Ms. Noriko FutagamiPhoto by Ms. Noriko Futagami


Then and now….Then and now….

Paul Harris, Silvester Schiele, Paul Harris, Silvester Schiele, and Rufus Chapin in the sun and Rufus Chapin in the sun room in 1940s.room in 1940s.

Sun room overlooking front of Sun room overlooking front of thethe

house in October 2003.house in October 2003. Photo by PDG James Photo by PDG James

AldenAlden

Paul and Jean Harris in Paul and Jean Harris in front of their fireplace in front of their fireplace in the 1942.the 1942.

Fireplace area on June 16, Fireplace area on June 16,

2005.2005. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

Paul Harris visiting with a member of the Paul Harris visiting with a member of the U.S. Navy in his Living room south west U.S. Navy in his Living room south west corner, in 1944.corner, in 1944.

Living room facing south in Living room facing south in

2005.2005. Photo by Ms. Noriko FutagamiPhoto by Ms. Noriko Futagami

View of the dining room in View of the dining room in

2005.2005. ..Photo by Ms. Noriko FutagamiPhoto by Ms. Noriko Futagami

View of the entrance from the View of the entrance from the dining room window.dining room window...Photo by PDG Jim Alden.Photo by PDG Jim Alden.

Stairs to second floor Stairs to second floor and four bedroomsand four bedrooms.. Photo by PDG Photo by PDG

James AldenJames Alden

Family room looking in the hall Family room looking in the hall to the front of the house in to the front of the house in


View of family room, added in View of family room, added in 1985, looking out the back 1985, looking out the back window in October 2003.window in October 2003. Photo by PDG Photo by PDG

James AldenJames Alden

View of back of home in View of back of home in


Kitchen in October 2003 as Kitchen in October 2003 as remodeled in 1985. remodeled in 1985. Photo by PDG James Alden Photo by PDG James Alden

Backyard of Comely Bank on Backyard of Comely Bank on

June 16, 2005.June 16, 2005. Photo by Ms. Noriko Futagami.Photo by Ms. Noriko Futagami.

Future Plans and Future Plans and NeedsNeeds

1.1. Finish painting outside and inside, do other Finish painting outside and inside, do other repairs as needed.repairs as needed.

2.2. Furnish house so that it can be lived in and Furnish house so that it can be lived in and used as an archival office.used as an archival office.

3.3. Set up formal museum-quality exhibits in Set up formal museum-quality exhibits in front room and sun room so that it can be front room and sun room so that it can be used to tell the Rotary story as a private used to tell the Rotary story as a private museum and at club and Rotary International museum and at club and Rotary International gatherings.gatherings.

4.4. Prepare landscape design drawings for the re-Prepare landscape design drawings for the re-establishment of the “International Friendship establishment of the “International Friendship Garden” based on historical photos.Garden” based on historical photos.

Future Plans and Future Plans and Needs, Needs, con’t.con’t.

5. Obtain permission from the City of Chicago to 5. Obtain permission from the City of Chicago to remove some of the trees (dead trees and remove some of the trees (dead trees and saplings). Permission is needed since the house is saplings). Permission is needed since the house is in a historical district.in a historical district.

6. Remove dead trees and trim trees, grinding some 6. Remove dead trees and trim trees, grinding some of the stumps down to ground level.of the stumps down to ground level.

7. Implement landscaping and re-establish the 7. Implement landscaping and re-establish the International Friendship GardenInternational Friendship Garden

8. Purchase park benches for the front and back of 8. Purchase park benches for the front and back of the home. Re-establish the arbor in the back yard.the home. Re-establish the arbor in the back yard.


9.9. Obtain local Rotary Clubs’ assistance in Obtain local Rotary Clubs’ assistance in maintaining home and landscaping. maintaining home and landscaping.

10.10. Arrange for tour guides who can give guided Arrange for tour guides who can give guided tours.tours.

11.11. Start developing the archive of records from Start developing the archive of records from the Past Presidents of Rotary.the Past Presidents of Rotary.

12.12. Raise funds to pay off mortgage which Raise funds to pay off mortgage which Naperville Rotary Charities, Inc. lent for the Naperville Rotary Charities, Inc. lent for the closing. closing.


13.13. Raise $5,000,000 to upgrade and maintain Raise $5,000,000 to upgrade and maintain home and establish endowment for home and establish endowment for preserving archival records.preserving archival records.

14.14. Work with volunteers in preserving Rotary’s Work with volunteers in preserving Rotary’s history as the Presidential Library for history as the Presidential Library for Past Presidents of Rotary International.Past Presidents of Rotary International.

Funeral procession of Paul Harris’ Funeral procession of Paul Harris’ casket from the church in January casket from the church in January 30, 1947.30, 1947.

The Rotary Foundation Trustees and other The Rotary Foundation Trustees and other Rotarians paying their respects at the Rotarians paying their respects at the Paul Harris cemetery site in October 2003. Paul Harris cemetery site in October 2003.

Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

The Chief Priest of Nichiren Buddhist TempleThe Chief Priest of Nichiren Buddhist TempleIchijo Toda, PDG District 2580 2003-04Ichijo Toda, PDG District 2580 2003-04with his wife, Aiko, visit the Mount Hope Cemetery with his wife, Aiko, visit the Mount Hope Cemetery burial site for Paul Harris while attending Rotary burial site for Paul Harris while attending Rotary International Convention in 2005. International Convention in 2005. Photo by PDG James AldenPhoto by PDG James Alden

Chicago Tribune - Monday, 27 January 1947Chicago Tribune - Monday, 27 January 1947

PAUL P. HARRIS DIES; FOUNDER OF ROTARY CLUBS-PAUL P. HARRIS DIES; FOUNDER OF ROTARY CLUBS---

Won World-Wide Fame Thru OrganizationWon World-Wide Fame Thru Organization

Paul P. Harris, founder of Rotary International, and it's president emeritus, died yesterday in his home, Comely Paul P. Harris, founder of Rotary International, and it's president emeritus, died yesterday in his home, Comely Bank, at 10856 Longwood dr. He was 78, and had been in failing health in recent years. He was a lawyer in Bank, at 10856 Longwood dr. He was 78, and had been in failing health in recent years. He was a lawyer in private life.private life.

Mr. Harris founded Rotary in 1905, and since then had seen it grow from single club with a few members in Mr. Harris founded Rotary in 1905, and since then had seen it grow from single club with a few members in Chicago to 5,638 clubs in 75 countries with more than 259,000 members.Chicago to 5,638 clubs in 75 countries with more than 259,000 members.

A spirit of loneliness influenced Mr. Harris in part to create the world-wide organization. He was born in Racine, A spirit of loneliness influenced Mr. Harris in part to create the world-wide organization. He was born in Racine, Wis., but reared in Vermont. He was educated at Princeton and the University of Iowa in 1891. For five years he Wis., but reared in Vermont. He was educated at Princeton and the University of Iowa in 1891. For five years he roamed, working as a newspaper man, an actor, and a salesman. He worked on fruit farms, and twice worked his roamed, working as a newspaper man, an actor, and a salesman. He worked on fruit farms, and twice worked his way to Europe on cattle boats.way to Europe on cattle boats.

Beginning of RotaryBeginning of Rotary

In 1896 Mr. Harris settled in Chicago and began the practice of law. Although friendly by nature, he had few In 1896 Mr. Harris settled in Chicago and began the practice of law. Although friendly by nature, he had few friends, and he saw others, like himself not native to the city, in similar situation.friends, and he saw others, like himself not native to the city, in similar situation.

One day in 1900 Mr. Harris had dinner with a lawyer friend, and latter the two strolled the neighborhood where One day in 1900 Mr. Harris had dinner with a lawyer friend, and latter the two strolled the neighborhood where his colleague introduced Mr. Harris to several neighborhood merchants as his friends. Up to then Mr. Harris had his colleague introduced Mr. Harris to several neighborhood merchants as his friends. Up to then Mr. Harris had not made social friends out side of his business friends, or clients. The neighborhood experience gave him an idea.not made social friends out side of his business friends, or clients. The neighborhood experience gave him an idea.

Mr. Harris decided to organize a club of representative business and professional men in fellowship and Mr. Harris decided to organize a club of representative business and professional men in fellowship and friendship. Three of his clients, Silvester Schiele, Gustavus Loehr, and Harry Ruggles, joined with him. They met friendship. Three of his clients, Silvester Schiele, Gustavus Loehr, and Harry Ruggles, joined with him. They met periodically in the old Mme. Galli restaurant, often called the birthplace of Rotary, where over the dinner table periodically in the old Mme. Galli restaurant, often called the birthplace of Rotary, where over the dinner table they discussed plans for the club.they discussed plans for the club.

Other Clubs FormedOther Clubs Formed

On Feb. 23, 1905, Rotary was born, and was so-called because it's members met in rotation at their several places On Feb. 23, 1905, Rotary was born, and was so-called because it's members met in rotation at their several places of business. The idea spread, and similar clubs were formed in other cities. Essence of Rotary's purpose was and of business. The idea spread, and similar clubs were formed in other cities. Essence of Rotary's purpose was and is--serve; high standards in business, professional and community life.is--serve; high standards in business, professional and community life.

Paul HarrisPaul HarrisFounder of Rotary InternationalFounder of Rotary International

(Born April 19, 1868-Died January 27, 1947) (Born April 19, 1868-Died January 27, 1947)

Jean Thomson HarrisJean Thomson Harris Jean Thomson was born on the November 8, 1881Jean Thomson was born on the November 8, 1881 in Edinburgh, Scotland.in Edinburgh, Scotland.

By 1905 the Thomson family had departed from By 1905 the Thomson family had departed from #81 Comely Bank Avenue, Edinburgh-some members#81 Comely Bank Avenue, Edinburgh-some members heading for Canada and eventually settling in the USA. heading for Canada and eventually settling in the USA.

One Saturday afternoon in 1910, on a ramble (walk) on the Ridge One Saturday afternoon in 1910, on a ramble (walk) on the Ridge in Beverly Hills area of Chicago, Paul Harris was in Beverly Hills area of Chicago, Paul Harris was out with the Chicago Prairie Club and onout with the Chicago Prairie Club and on climbing through a fence tore the sleeve of his fine climbing through a fence tore the sleeve of his fine tweed jacket. Jean Thomson who was also on thetweed jacket. Jean Thomson who was also on the ramble with her sister, Mary, noticed Paul's dismayramble with her sister, Mary, noticed Paul's dismay and offered to repair the rip for him. and offered to repair the rip for him.

Just three months after that meeting,Just three months after that meeting, on July 2, 1910, Jean and Paul Harris were married, on July 2, 1910, Jean and Paul Harris were married, a union which lasted 37 years until Paul's deatha union which lasted 37 years until Paul's death

Jean Thomson Harris Jean Thomson Harris cont’.cont’.

In 1912 Jean and Paul named their house in In 1912 Jean and Paul named their house in Chicago-”Comely Bank”.Chicago-”Comely Bank”.

Following the death of her husband Paul in 1947,Following the death of her husband Paul in 1947, Jean continued to do much voluntary service in Jean continued to do much voluntary service in the City of Chicago but always felt a strong desire to the City of Chicago but always felt a strong desire to return to her native Edinburgh. This she did in 1955. return to her native Edinburgh. This she did in 1955.

On November 9, 1963, the day after herOn November 9, 1963, the day after her 82nd birthday, Jean Thomson Harris died in a82nd birthday, Jean Thomson Harris died in a nursing home in Newington, Edinburgh. nursing home in Newington, Edinburgh.

Jean Thomson Harris is buried in Jean Thomson Harris is buried in Newington Cemetery. Other members of the ThomsonNewington Cemetery. Other members of the Thomson family are buried nearby.family are buried nearby.

Jean Harris’ final resting place in Newington Cemetery, Jean Harris’ final resting place in Newington Cemetery, Edinburgh, Scotland. Paul Harris, in 1935, told the Edinburgh, Scotland. Paul Harris, in 1935, told the story of how Jean's parents aged around 90 both said story of how Jean's parents aged around 90 both said farewell to their daughter to return to Scotland in farewell to their daughter to return to Scotland in order to be buried in the "old soil". They had stayed in order to be buried in the "old soil". They had stayed in the USA for over 25 years but never became the USA for over 25 years but never became "American". Jean's mother wished to return in order to "American". Jean's mother wished to return in order to be buried in Newington next to her mother. So, we be buried in Newington next to her mother. So, we now have three generations of daughters buried next now have three generations of daughters buried next to each otherto each other..Photos by Ed Lucas.Photos by Ed Lucas.

Jean Thomson HarrisJean Thomson Harris(Born November 8, 1881- Died November 9, 1963)(Born November 8, 1881- Died November 9, 1963)

Historical Notes:Historical Notes:

On February 23, 1905 the first Rotary Club On February 23, 1905 the first Rotary Club meeting was held.meeting was held.

As of Paul Harris death, there were 5,638 As of Paul Harris death, there were 5,638 Rotary Clubs world-wide in 75 countries with Rotary Clubs world-wide in 75 countries with a total membership in excess of 259,000.a total membership in excess of 259,000.

In 1948-49, the Rotary Foundation awarded In 1948-49, the Rotary Foundation awarded the first 40 Ambassadorial Scholarships in the first 40 Ambassadorial Scholarships in honor of Paul Harris.honor of Paul Harris.

As of 2005, there were 31,000 Rotary Clubs As of 2005, there were 31,000 Rotary Clubs in 167 countries with a total membership of in 167 countries with a total membership of approximately 1.2 million.approximately 1.2 million.

In appreciation, thank you In appreciation, thank you to the following to the following photographers:photographers:

- - PDG James AldenPDG James Alden

– Ms. Noriko Futagami, Editor-in-Chief, Rotary-No-TomoMs. Noriko Futagami, Editor-in-Chief, Rotary-No-Tomo

– Ed Lucas, Rotarian from Edinburgh Rotary ClubEd Lucas, Rotarian from Edinburgh Rotary Club

– PDG Jack Mayo, Nita Louise Mayo and Kathleen MayoPDG Jack Mayo, Nita Louise Mayo and Kathleen Mayo

– PDG Fred OttoPDG Fred Otto

– Ms. Yoshiko Urayama, President/Editor-in Chief, Chicago Shinpo.Ms. Yoshiko Urayama, President/Editor-in Chief, Chicago Shinpo.

– Anonymous photographers’ work, photos from Rotary Anonymous photographers’ work, photos from Rotary International Archives.International Archives.

In appreciation, to the In appreciation, to the following archivists:following archivists:

– Ed Lucas, a Rotarian in the Rotary Club of Ed Lucas, a Rotarian in the Rotary Club of

Edinburgh,Edinburgh, for his research into the life of Jean for his research into the life of Jean Thomson Thomson

– PDG Jack Mayo Chairman of the Rotary Heritage & PDG Jack Mayo Chairman of the Rotary Heritage & History FellowshipHistory Fellowship

– Richard McKay, Past President, Chicago Rotary OneRichard McKay, Past President, Chicago Rotary One

– Laura Mills and Francine Keyes, Rotary International Laura Mills and Francine Keyes, Rotary International Archives Archives

– Rotary Global History FellowshipRotary Global History Fellowship

For further For further information:information:

Go to Go to www.Paulharrishome.com or www.Comelybank.org

You can down load an extensive gallery of You can down load an extensive gallery of

photos from the web sites particularly photos from the web sites particularly www.paulharrishome.com.www.paulharrishome.com.

For further For further information:information:Robert C. Knuepfer, Jr. Robert C. Knuepfer, Jr. President, Paul and Jean Harris’ Home FoundationPresident, Paul and Jean Harris’ Home FoundationBaker & McKenzie LLPBaker & McKenzie LLP130 E. Randolph Drive, #3500130 E. Randolph Drive, #3500Chicago, IL 60601Chicago, IL 60601

312-861-8913 (ofc)312-861-8913 (ofc)312-698-2234 (fax)312-698-2234 (fax)[email protected]@bakernet.com

Fred Otto, SecretaryFred Otto, SecretaryPaul and Jean Harris’ Home FoundationPaul and Jean Harris’ Home Foundation3 South Prospect, Suite 2063 South Prospect, Suite 206Park Ridge, IL 60068Park Ridge, IL 60068

847-698-1160 (ofc)847-698-1160 (ofc)847-698-6221 (fax)847-698-6221 (fax)[email protected]@ix.netcom.com

comely bank home of paul and jean harris from 1912 until 1947 and rotary international early meeting...

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