History of the Hardin County Chamber of Commerce
Local businessmen started the Kenton Area Chamber of Commerce in the early 1900’s. Existing records indicate the Organizational Meeting of Directors was held on June 23, 1920.
While not much history of the Chamber through the years is available, we know the influential leadership of many prominent Kenton businessmen, which are included in the list below, guided the organization. The Chamber was incorporated on March 20, 1964.
The 90’s brought an era of change to the Chamber, both locally and worldwide. They are now considered proactive business advocates rather than retail promotion’s coordinators. The change began here when on February 5, 1991 the articles of incorporation were amended to change the name from the Kenton Area Chamber of Commerce to the Hardin County Chamber of Commerce. The expansion in the name and coverage was intended to better reflect how regional our world has become. The Chamber’s economic development and tourism efforts were focused on the entire county. Reflecting the increased activity in those areas, the Economic Development Council and the Tourist & Convention Bureau were formed under the umbrella of the Chamber and later incorporated as individual entities.
The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce continues to provide support, service and information for business, industry and the community. The Chamber promotes business development through seminars and training, as well as offering numerous savings plans to benefit member businesses. The Chamber Gold Gift Certificate program provides the gift of choice and generates thousands of dollars for Hardin County Businesses. For over 80 years the Chamber has made a substantial impact on the community in the areas of business, economic development and quality of life.
On September 1, 2006 the Chamber merged with EDC, TCB and Square Repair to form the Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance.
Past Locations of the Chamber of Commerce
- August 28, 2001 - Moved to 225 S. Detroit St. (COC, EDC & UW purchased bldg)
- July 8, 2001 - Moved to 809 Fontaine St. (International Paper Bldg.)
- 1997 - Moved to 100 W. Franklin St. (Liberty Bank Building) previous location was 118 S. Main St.
- 1973 - Moved to 8 N. Main Street
- March 20, 1964 Date of Inc.
- 1954 - Located AAA office
- 1929 - Moved to Weaver Hotel
- 1923 - Located St. Nicholas Hotel
- 1917 - Located over Schultz store
- 1914 - Located 3rd floor over AAA office