Exploring our Heritage - The Chamber

By Paula Kimmel on Tuesday, June 1st, 2010 |

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the third in a series of articles about Huntington's past.

Huntington’s Heritage Days is sponsored by the Huntington County Chamber of Commerce and was begun in 1963 by the downtown merchants. The Chamber coordinates all of the activities associated with Heritage Days including the annual parade.

The Huntington County Chamber of Commerce was founded by local retail and industrial leaders on March 1, 1911 as the “Huntington Commercial Club.” On March 20, 1924, the name was changed to the Huntington County Chamber of Commerce. It was incorporated on March 20, 1934 as a not-for-profit organization with D.A. Purviance as president.

Early committees were concerned with “censorship” and “health conditions.” The goal of eliminating automobiles on streets on Saturdays was among the Chamber’s early priorities.

The Chamber “matured” into a support for businesses in the community and helped to develop the Huntington Airport. Promoting the reservoirs that would provide flood control as well as recreational activities for residents and visitors were a focus of the mid 1960s. With the financial backing and volunteer efforts of community leaders, the Chamber worked to enable the development of Riverfork Industrial Park. The Chamber then worked to bring businesses to the park.

The active Chamber board and staff continue to help “grow” Huntington providing support to new as well as existing businesses. They work to sponsor the bi-annual Business EXPO, Administrative Assistants’ Day and various seminars and workshops that benefit local businesses and residents. Chamber committees initiated the beginnings of Huntington County Leadership and the construction of the candy cane street decorations used at Christmas in the city.

The Chamber also is associated with Life Long Learning and its efforts to promote continuing education in Huntington County. It is networked with local and state government representatives to provide opportunities for legislative forums, and is a part of economic development including the Hoosier Heartland Corridor project.

The Chamber sponsors what has become known as “After Hours” events, giving businesses the opportunity to showcase their place of business to the community. The Chamber’s future plans include providing additional support to businesses in the community and discovering new ways to implement growth and improvements in the years ahead.

Remember to turn in Heritage Days Parade and activity entry forms. The coloring/essay contest forms are due to the Chamber or Visitors’ Bureau offices no later than June 7.

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