Link to the State SIR organization

Realizing the social nature of man, and his desire for the company of others, particularly those retired from gainful employment in commercial and professional life, the late Damian L. Reynolds conceived the idea of SONS IN RETIREMENT in the spring of 1958.

Three friends, all retired, would meet with Mr. Reynolds on occasion for a friendly luncheon. He suggested to these three they join with him in his idea. A kickoff luncheon was held in the Claramar Restaurant in San Mateo, California on July 23, 1958. The four founders and five of their friends came to the luncheon.

The name Sons In Retirement was unanimously adopted by eighteen men and now charter members of the new club at a second meeting on August 20, 1958. Consideration was given to several names suggested; none of which seemed to make clear the real purpose of the fledgling group. Because most retired men wish nothing to do with things pertaining to inactivity or laziness, the chosen name seemed to enunciate and give dignity to retirement, the inevitable lot of most men.

Basic guidelines of SONS IN RETIREMENT were set forth in Rules and Procedures. These were drawn up at the time of incorporation in the latter part of 1959. Revisions in the Rules and Procedures have been made from time to time by the State Board of Directors.

1. SIR is a luncheon club composed of men retired from full-time gainful employment.

2. There are no dues, initiation fees or assessments, other than normal voluntary contributions to cover expenses.

3. The organization espouses no political party, religion or sect of any kind, or promotes no cause regardless of how worthy.

4. Eligible men may be invited to join after attending at least one luncheon meeting at the invitation of a sponsor and being introduced to the other members.

5. The club meets monthly for lunch, at each member's expense, and a suitable program is part of each luncheon.

6. If you are unable to attend a luncheon or are bringing a guest, call and report this to the Attendance Chairman twenty four hours in advance. This assists in ordering the correct number of luncheons.

7. More than six reported and more than three unreported absences in one year could demonstrate a lack of interest that could result in ones suspension. Visiting another branch luncheon can make up meetings.

8. Volunteers fill all positions. We encourage "The Spirit of Volunteerism" and solicit your involvement including committee duty and bringing in new members.

9. A member may ask an acquaintance he feels would enjoy the SIR fellowship to join him for a luncheon meeting. Have the person complete a membership application and give it to your Membership Committee.

The growth of SONS IN RETIREMENT has been phenomenal. From a single Branch with nine members in 1958 it has expanded until in 1999 there were 177 Branches with approximately 30,000 members. Growth continues but the organization has elected to confine its membership to the Northern California area. It is a basic rule that an established Branch sponsors each new Branch and growth is controlled so that personal contacts between members are maintained.

The corporation's copyrighted insignia is the Rooster. Quoting the late Damian Reynolds: "Of all the creatures on earth, none expresses independence and dignity with more sureness and aplomb than the rooster. The majesty of his presence is felt in the barnyard, and when he crows he can be heard for miles, not in a faint-hearted crow but with a noise that calls attention to his majestic being."

This together with the slogan, "Promoting the Independence and Dignity of Retirement" sums up the feeling of accomplishment and meaning of SONS IN RETIREMENT.

Revised: 09/30/07