Chamber Celebrates Centennial Year

100 years.

It’s a long time.

In 1912, life expectancy was a mere 47 years. The average wage was .22 per hour. And, only 8% of homes had telephones. Roosevelt was president. There were only 46 states.* And 95% of births took place at home. Oh baby, we’ve come a long way.

The Valpo Chamber is celebrating its Centennial Year, and we’ve come a long way too. We’ve grown by leaps and bounds. What was once known as the Commercial Club evolved into the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce on June 7, 1912. The same year that the Titanic sank, Fenway Park opened, and the Girl Scouts were established. Through victories and defeats, economic growth and down economies, what is now known as the Valpo Chamber is an organization of strength and accomplishment, of respect and vigor. We are over 700 members strong, and growing each year.

We celebrate 100 years in good company. This year also marks the centennial year for LL Bean, Arthur Murray dance studios, and NIPSCO. Heavy-hitters like Kellogg’s, Chevy, Whirlpool and General Electric have recently reached that 100-year mark. It’s a recognition we don’t take lightly.
We are proud to commemorate this special occasion and wish to extend our profound thanks to our membership businesses, countless volunteers, and strong board leadership. You are the reason we withstood the test of time. More importantly, you are the reason we continue to carry out the chamber mission of serving business needs, enhancing quality of life and providing opportunities. You have brought us to this pinnacle, and we are excited for what the future holds.

*wondering what states were NOT yet states in 1912? Oklahoma, Arizona, Alaska, & Hawaii

Danielle Oeding
Vice President, Sales & Marketing
oeding@valparaisochamber.org