With these words, a unique procession begins to move its way around the tables of diners at New York's august Union Club. Above their heads two young men carry a stuffed beaver, the symbol of The Holland Society of New York and the pelt upon which the commerce of New Netherland was based.

With this peculiar rite commences the annual meeting dinner of the Society, an organization whose members keep alive the memory of the Dutch West India Company's North American colony, and have a convivial time doing it.

Starting in 1922, the Holland Society selected a person of achievement to honor with a medal for "contributions to a field of human endeavor." Presidents, princes, pastors, generals, and astronauts are among those who have been honored with this award. Other non-members of the Society, who are selected for honors are the scholars of New Netherland recognized as Fellows of the Holland Society of New York

The Holland Society has numerous local branches for members throughout the United States and Canada, which combine history with social activities. Because of the efforts of many members, the Society continues to play an active role in the North American scene. As an important element in New York City, the Society not only enlivens intellectual and social life, but also provides the invaluable service of recording for posterity the sites of buildings now gone and the lives of those who once inhabited them