A Brief SNC History

Organized in 1949 in members’ homes, the purpose of establishing Savannah Newcomers Club “shall be the development of fellowship and acquaintance among new residents and their assimilation into the citizenship and social activities of their new community.” 

The first bylaws were adopted on March 19, 1952, and the first officers (recorded) were elected in 1956, with Lois Smith serving as the first SNC president.

There was no newspaper notice of the first elected officers, but there was one for the second year. This Savannah Morning News article dated April 18, 1957, announced the newly installed SNC officers for the 1957-58 year, which took place at the Pirates’ House. Mrs. Robert Hotchkiss was elected as the new president, with Mrs. E.L. Cole as vice president, Mrs. M.J. Zare as secretary and Mrs. J.L. Johnson as treasurer.  It’s also noted that Mrs. Harry Handlin, a past president, was the installing officer, although there was no documentation as to when she was a past president. 

The event also included card playing (bridge) in the Trustees’ Garden Room, including mention of the high-score winners. A silver sandwich tray was presented to Mrs. S. W. (Lois) Smith outgoing president.