Albert Belmont “A.B.” Graham

On January 15 th , 1902, 33-years old Albert Belmont Graham, then Superintendent of Springfield Township Schools, met with a group of 81 grade school students to start the first Boys and Girls Agricultural Club. It was his insight that started the movement that became known as 4-H.

Theodore Spears, Senior

At age eight, Theodore Spears joined the first Boys and Girls Agricultural Club. Through the teaching of the club's advisor, A.B. Graham, he experienced the dignity of farming and a love for the beauty of nature.

Mildred Butler Neff

Mildred Neff felt very fortunate in being a member of Graham's first Club. The opportunity gave her the chance later to become involved in many programs and share the news about 4-H with others.

Blanche Harley Bickle

Blanche Bickle was eight years old when she became a member of the beginning Club. The experience meant a great deal, especially over the years as she watched it progress in to today's 4-H program.

Roy Dickerson

Roy Dickerson was raised in Springfield and attended Locust Grove School where he met A.B. Graham. Roy's involvement with graham is probably why he loved caring for trees and producing fruit. He lived in Springfield most of his life.

Jennie Webster Irie

Jennie Webster Irie was probably the charter member who was involved the most with the Ohio 4-H following the 75th anniversary in 1977. She claimed to be the youngest child in the Charter club. She said she was too young to be invited by Graham, but tagged along with her relatives since she had to be with them after school; So Graham Let her in. Jennie was married to another charter member, William Irie. However, it was many years into their marriage when they discovered that they both were in the 1st club. Mrs. Jennie Irie was he last surviving charter member at the age of 10. The first 4-H club also had 103 members in it!