History of the Club

In spring 1990, Marie S. and her husband, Cal S., started the Port Townsend Alano Club. About 20 people came to the first meeting, formed a board, and raised money. Marie and Cal rented a small space on Sims Way, fixed it up themselves, and opened the club that same spring.

The club was built on volunteer work. Marie spent many hours there, others took shifts, and the Brown Bag Group was the first meeting to use the space. Soon the Westerners and Friday Niters joined too.

Within a year, the club needed more space. While baking pies for Don's Pharmacy, Marie met the owner of the McGee Building, who offered to rent the second floor. People say her pies may have helped make it happen.

The upstairs was one large room, but members transformed it. They cleaned, painted, built walls, made a main hall and meeting room, and added an office, utility room, and kitchen.

By fall 1991, the work was finished, the club celebrated, and the Gotta Have It group began meeting there.

The early years were not easy, and money was often tight. What kept the club going was faith, generosity, and a community willing to give money, time, and care.

Because of years of volunteer work and donations, the club has become a lasting place of hope and service in the community. Many lives have been changed here.

Please help keep this club strong for today’s members and for those still to come.

Gratefully, Judith T.  charter member - 1990