POETRY SOCIETY OF TENNESSEE (PST) HISTORY
The Poetry Society came to life in June 1953, as seven poets in Memphis, Tennessee, formed an organization to bring together poets and poetry lovers, to promote poets and poetry, and to help poets of all ages develop skills in the art and craft of poetry. Over time, the geographical span of the society expanded beyond Memphis to include members from across Tennessee and beyond.
Charter of Incorporation
The Charter of The Poetry Society of Tennessee was prepared by charter member Margaret B. McCarty and granted June 30, 1953.
Founders
At the second general meeting on June 20, 1953, the seven signers of the charter became the first officers elected to this new organization:
President: Raymond McCarty
Vice President: Charlie W. Sturm
Recording Secretary: Inez E. Andersen
Corresponding Secretary: Cleo John Fox
Treasurer: Margaret B. McCarty
Directors: Kenneth L. Beaudoin and Gordon Lockhart
Purpose
According to the Society Charter, the organization was constituted “for the purpose of bringing into being a close comradeship and mutual working fellowship among the recognized poets of the state; stimulating the as yet unrecognized poets of the state to make an effort for recognition in the established channels of expression; sponsoring the recognition of poetry as a creative art in the educational institutions within this state by encouraging the youth of Tennessee to secure the cultural background and appreciation necessary to achieve stature as a poet; and assisting and encouraging in every way possible the development of creative talent in the field of poetry.”
More Than Seventy Years Strong
In June 2023, Poetry Society of Tennessee celebrated its 70th anniversary. For more than seven decades, the society has remained steadfast to its purpose. We remain focused on building community and pursuing excellence in poetry. Our programs aim to achieve these goals, and we invite all poets and poetry lovers to join us in this cause. If you belong to another society or organization connected to poetry, contact us! We believe in promoting a network of all that is possible in poetry across Tennessee.
Charter of Incorporation
The Charter of The Poetry Society of Tennessee was prepared by charter member Margaret B. McCarty and granted June 30, 1953.
Founders
At the second general meeting on June 20, 1953, the seven signers of the charter became the first officers elected to this new organization:
President: Raymond McCarty
Vice President: Charlie W. Sturm
Recording Secretary: Inez E. Andersen
Corresponding Secretary: Cleo John Fox
Treasurer: Margaret B. McCarty
Directors: Kenneth L. Beaudoin and Gordon Lockhart
Purpose
According to the Society Charter, the organization was constituted “for the purpose of bringing into being a close comradeship and mutual working fellowship among the recognized poets of the state; stimulating the as yet unrecognized poets of the state to make an effort for recognition in the established channels of expression; sponsoring the recognition of poetry as a creative art in the educational institutions within this state by encouraging the youth of Tennessee to secure the cultural background and appreciation necessary to achieve stature as a poet; and assisting and encouraging in every way possible the development of creative talent in the field of poetry.”
More Than Seventy Years Strong
In June 2023, Poetry Society of Tennessee celebrated its 70th anniversary. For more than seven decades, the society has remained steadfast to its purpose. We remain focused on building community and pursuing excellence in poetry. Our programs aim to achieve these goals, and we invite all poets and poetry lovers to join us in this cause. If you belong to another society or organization connected to poetry, contact us! We believe in promoting a network of all that is possible in poetry across Tennessee.