Wetipquin Community Development Club

Founded on October 30, 1965, marks a significant period in community organization and development for the residents of Wetipquin. Key figures in the founding of the club were Mrs. Rachel Hall, Mr. George Furbush, Mr. Amos Mitchell, and Mr. Andrew Coorman, along with other residents. Their discussions led to the identification of vital community needs, which resulted in seven projects focusing on housing, recreation (including the establishment of the Community Center), water resource development, harbor improvement, environmental quality, road safety, and citizenship engagement.

With the guidance of Mr. Martin G. Bailey, an Extension Supervisor from the University of Maryland, the club elected its first officers, including Mrs. Rachel Hall as President, Mr. James Mitchell as Vice President, Mrs. Joyce Burrell as Secretary, and Mr. Harry McMahon as Treasurer (later succeeded by Mr. George Furbush, and eventually by Mrs. Pearline Mitchell after Furbush’s passing).

The creation of a harbor on Wetipquin Creek in 1966, completed in 1967, allowed local boat owners to purchase piers for both work and recreational purposes. The community also worked on road improvements for safer school bus and truck passage. In 1969, the Wetipquin Community Center was purchased from Friendship Methodist Church, and on June 19, 1971, it was officially dedicated to serve as a religious, charitable, educational, and social hub for the community. A daycare was opened in 1972 to support local families.