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Club History
In 1977, The Goebel Collectors’ Club, an innovative, exciting “first” in the world of collectibles, was founded in the United States. Over 100,000 members joined the Club in its first year.
In 1979, Local Chapters were introduced, enabling members to meet others who shared their interest in M.I. Hummel figurines as well as the desire to develop caring and sharing networks.
In 1981, the first annual Local Chapter Convention was held, leading to on-going Inter-Chapter Conferences starting five years later. Inter-Chapter Conferences are organized by the Local Chapters.
In 1985, to celebrate fifty years of M.I. Hummel figurines, the Club began an international travel program. The varied itineraries throughout Europe included three of the most important destinations for Hummel collectors who wish to explore the early years of Sister Maria Innocentia; the Goebel factory in Rödental; the Convent of Siessen, Sister Maria Innocentia’s home for the last 15 years of her life; and the Village of Massing in Bavaria, the birthplace of Sister Maria Innocentia.
In 1989, our name was changed from the Goebel Collectors’ Club to the M.I. Hummel Club to reflect the primary interest of most of our members.
Today, the M.I. Hummel Club is active throughout North America, Europe, Japan and Australia and represents approximately 175,000 members.
Each year , hundreds of members gather together for a festive weekend of learning and sharing at the M.I. Hummel Club Convention. Knowledgeable speakers and personalities from all aspects of Hummel collecting host seminars and events. During even-numbered years, the Convention is held at the Goebel Factory in Rödental, Germany. In odd-numbered years, it is held in the United States.
What was begun many years ago, by a company interested in developing a close relationship with its audience, has proven to be an exciting and enduring entity, enjoyed by its members worldwide.
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