Did you know the Rotary International emblem isn’t just a symbol — it’s a story of innovation, unity, and purpose!
It started with a simple wagon wheel drawn by Chicago Rotarian Montague Bear. His sketch of motion and dust captured the spirit of Civilization and Movement—a fitting image for Rotary’s dynamic impact.
By 1922, Rotary clubs around the world agreed to unite under one powerful design: a gear wheel with 24 cogs and six spokes. But engineers had one critique—it wouldn’t turn without a keyway to connect it to a power shaft.
So, in 1923, Rotary added the missing keyway, completing a symbol that not only looked bold and purposeful—but actually worked! A wheel powered to move forward with service, integrity, and global collaboration.
Today, that iconic wheel stands for Rotarians everywhere — reminding us that when we're connected to something greater, we create real change.
Wherever it turns, it brings progress. Wherever it rolls, it connects people. And wherever it leads, Rotary follows—with heart and momentum.
