District History

In 1954, the University of Alabama was the first club built in the Alabama District and the 72nd club organized in Circle K International.  About a year and a half later, Auburn University’s Club was organized.  But in 1955, all clubs throughout Circle K International were required to re-file with Kiwanis International for a new charter due to the approval of the new International Structure.  Auburn was the first club to complete this process on April 9, 1957.

The Alabama District of Circle K International was officially recognized as the seventh district of Circle K International on June 30, 1958.  John Hoyt Blaylock, who would later be elected the first Circle K International President from Alabama, chaired the organizational meeting at Snead College in Boaz.  Attending the conference were representatives from all five clubs organized in Alabama at the time-Auburn University, Southern Union State Junior College, the University of Alabama, the University of North Alabama, and Walker College (now Bevill State Community College).  At this meeting, Paul Osborn, Jr. of Walker College was elected the first governor of the Alabama District of Circle K.

Over the next ten years, the Alabama District experienced tremendous growth, as 20 clubs were built, with only one losing its charter, and three of the original five clubs are still active today.  Membership in the Alabama District peaked in 1972-73 with 592 members, and in 1985-86, the number of active clubs peaked at 28.  The Alabama District has received the highest honor a district can receive, Distinguished District, at eight International Conventions: 1972-73, 1985-86, 1987-88, 1991-92, 1992-93, 1994-95, and 1999-2000.

Today, the Alabama District stands as one of the strongest and most honored districts in Circle K International. The Alabama District’s more than 400 members on over a dozen campuses, with more activating all the time,  make a meaningful impact on their campuses and communities daily.