1927
Round Table founded in Norwich
Louis Marchesi launches Round Table in Norwich.
History
Round Table began in Norwich in 1927, and Norwich No.1 remains the founding table of the movement. As we approach our centenary in 2027, we continue to honour that history by investing time, energy, and funding into local causes and community projects.
From humble beginnings in Norwich to a global movement of fellowship and service, Round Table has brought together young men for 100 years to make a positive impact in their communities.
Round Table was founded in Norwich in 1927 by Louis Marchesi, who wanted to create a club for young businessmen to network, socialize, and give back to their communities. What started as a local initiative has grown into an international organization, and now we return to where it all began to celebrate a century of friendship, fellowship, and service.
Banner Archive
Browse our growing collection of historical banners.
How It All Started
Read the founding story of Round Table in Norwich and how it grew into a global movement.
Round Table Timeline
Norwich to Global Movement
1927
First meeting at Suckling House
The inaugural gathering reportedly draws around 90 attendees.
1936
First overseas table formed
The movement expands internationally with a new table in Copenhagen.
1939
Pre-war growth
Round Table reaches 125 clubs and around 4,600 members before World War II.
1948
Round Table International established
RTI is formally established in Hastings to support global fellowship.
1961
Global movement across 30+ countries
Round Table is active internationally across a broad network of countries.
1968
Louis Marchesi remembered
Founder Louis Marchesi passes away and is honoured by the movement.
2017
90th anniversary era celebrated in Norwich
Norwich hosts major Round Table celebrations in the modern era.
2027
100 years of Round Table
Norwich celebrates the centenary of the founding table and its legacy.