Leeann Leroy, F269999
September 2013
On October 9, 1965, 14 coach-owning families gathered at Little Bluff Campground in Rio, Wisconsin, to talk about forming a motorhome chapter for those living in the state of Wisconsin. During this initial meeting, a question-and-answer session helped form the bylaws for the new chapter, and a motion was made to establish the annual dues at $5 per year, which would remain in effect until 1966. Possible names for the chapter were suggested. These included Wisconsin Pioneer Chapter, Badger State FMCA, Badger Motor Coachers, and Badger Chapter FMCA, the latter of which was unanimously chosen. The group decided to delay the election of officers until the spring meeting, at which time they would have FMCA representation at the rally.
On May 14, 1966, the group reconvened to elect officers. The following month, three years after FMCA’s inception, the chapter received its charter from FMCA. There were 16 charter members, with James Wright from Rio, Wisconsin, having the distinction of being B-1 on the Badger roster. The charter member with the lowest FMCA membership number was Rolf Darbo from Madison, Wisconsin, who was F161. By the time 1970 arrived, there were 66 member families. Since that time, the chapter has steadily grown and now has 161 member families.
In 1969, the first winter rally was held in Durand, Wisconsin, February 21 through 23. The first snow meet was dubbed “Operation Snowflake.” What fun they had snowmobiling! These days, it seems like most members like to motor off to warmer climates in the winter.
Since the beginning, members of the Badger chapter have been active participants in many area and national events. Thank you, FMCA, for a great support system!