History of the Rollin' Rock Club

With members all over the United States and Canada, and other foreign countries, the Rollin' Rock Club is one of the largest gem and mineral hobby clubs in the United States and one of the world-wide clubs.

The Rollin' Rock Club was organized in 1955 at Corpus Christi, Texas. According to its Constitution, "The purpose of this Club shall be to promote the enjoyment of rocks and bring about a closer association of the Rockhounds." At that time, there were many Rockhounds living in small towns and outlying districts, too far from organized Gem and Mineral Clubs to be active members. As "orphans" they were denied the privilege of exhibiting at the Federation shows because they had no affiliation with a member club. Membership in the RRC was the solution.

Since the membership is world-wide, all club business is conducted by mail. There is but one official meeting of the club each year, which is held in conjunction with the annual show and convention of the South Central Federation. However, according to the Constitution and By-laws, " official Unofficial " meetings may be held at any time or place where three or more members get together for the purpose of swapping, bragging, etc. This type of meeting also is held during a show if the show-giving club issues an invitation for such a meeting.

The RRC Newsletter is the medium of contact among members. It contains club news, letters from members, nodule sketches on new members and a membership directory which is published once a year. All members have two things in common: An interest in Earth Science and a friendly attitude toward their fellow Rockhounds.

Through the RRC Newsletter (published quarterly), and through traveling and correspondence, members from all over the country and in foreign lands get to know each other. There are members who are enthusiasts in every phase of the hobby. The newsletter is the means for those members with common interests to find each other. Many beautiful and lasting friendships have been made and thousands of pounds of trading material have been exchanged among RRC members.

The Rollin' Rock Club is affiliated with the South Central Federation of Mineralogical Societies and the American Federation of Mineralogical Societies. None of its officers receive any pay. Yearly dues in the United States and Canada are $10.00 for single memberships and $16.00 for husband and wife. In other countries the dues are $12.00 and $18.00, respectively.