For nearly a century, the Choteau Lions Club has proudly served our community with a commitment to service, fellowship, and leadership. Our story began on May 14, 1927, when a group of visionary men came together to establish a Lions Club chapter right here in Choteau, Montana.
Sponsored by the Great Falls Lions Club, our chartering marked the beginning of a long-standing tradition of civic service and community involvement. In those early days, the Lions motto—“We Serve”—was more than a phrase; it was a call to action that resonated deeply with our founding members.
These Charter Members laid the foundation for a service organization that would go on to support generations of Choteau residents. From supporting local youth and improving public spaces to organizing fundraisers and community celebrations, the values they set forth continue to guide our efforts today.
Choteau Lions Club Charter Members
The following Lions signed the original charter on May 14, 1927:
- Phil J. Cole
- C.D. McDonald
- James Eckford
- H. E. Adams
- Shirley Wallace
- Geo. Tennant
- O.G. Meadows
- R.E. Nelson
- C.J. McDonald
- C.H. Dulaney
- J.J. Hannan
- W.W. Smith
- Edward Howard
- W.H. Webb
- D.P. Fabrick
- Chas. A. Franks
- E.J. Crary
- John W. Hentges
- L.E. Taylor
- G.C. Core
- H.W. Bateman
- E.L. Jourdonais
- Robert Clarkson
We honor their legacy with each project we undertake, each neighbor we serve, and each new member we welcome. Their spirit of service lives on in the Choteau Lions Club—stronger than ever.
International Association of Lions Clubs Charter
To All to Whom These Presents Shall Come: Greeting
Know Ye that the International Association of Lions Clubs has granted, and by these presents does grant to the Members, whose names are hereunto affixed, and to all regularly elected members and their successors, this Charter fully constituting them a Local Club, under the name and title of The Lions Club of Choteau Located at Choteau, Montana with all the rights and privileges given to members of the International Association of Lions Clubs, according to the rules and regulations of the constitution and by-laws of the International Association now in force, or hereinafter enacted.
This Charter shall be in full force and effect from the day of the date hereof, and for such time as the Members of the Local Club shall conform to the laws and rules of the International Association: Otherwise this Charter shall be revoked.
In Witness Whereof, the International Association of Lions Clubs has authorized its President and Secretary to affix their signatures, and caused the seal of the Association to be hereunto affixed this 14th day of May in the year of our Lord 1927.
/s/W. A. Westfall, President
/s/Melvin Jones, Secretary
