| Since the Toastmasters organization began in 1924, more than three million men and women have benefited from the communication and leadership
programs that are constantly being revised to suit its membership.
The first club was formed in October 1924, when a group of men assembled by Dr. Ralph C. Smedley met in the basement of the Santa Ana, California YMCA practice and train in the art of public speaking. The group decided to form a club and the name 'Toastmasters' was decided upon.
A year later, a second club was started in Anaheim, California, followed by a third in Los Angeles. By 1930, it became apparent that it would be necessary to coordinate the activities of the growing number of clubs and to standardize the teaching methods. After formation of a club in New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada, The group known as 'Toastmasters' became known as 'Toastmasters International' after the formation of a club in New Westminster, British Columbia, the then home of the seat of power in British Columbia. The second club to be formed in British Columbia was formed in Vancouver and is now known as Vancouver 59. The beginning of District 21 had begun. It now comprises of 218 clubs in 10 Divisions spread across British Columbia.
The forerunner of today's Communication and Leadership program, the basic training manual, was introduced in 1942. It is constantly modified and updated.
By 1954, the number of Toastmasters clubs had approached 1,500. Today there are over 199,000 Toastmasters worldwide, in over 8,300 clubs in over 70 countries. Toastmasters International continues to make effective communication a worldwide reality. |
