In 1898, five men met in the Manhattan living room of the Hon. George Gordon Battle to explore the possibilities of forming a social organization for North Carolinians living in New York.
In addition to the host, those present were: George Garland Allen, James B. Duke, Judge Janius Parker, and W.W. Fuller. When these gentlemen parted that evening they invited August Van Wyck to become the first president for the North Carolina Society of New York.
In the newly drafted constitution, the purpose of the Society was clearly stated. “To cultivate social intercourse among its members, to promote their common interests and contribute to the welfare of the State of North Carolina.”