Difference between revisions of "Wooster Board of Trade"

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*  To alleviate the pressing need for more free parking spaces downtown, the Board leased two lots, one south of the Collier Building and one north of the [[Church of God (Wooster, Ohio)]], paying rents on these lots totaling $130 per year. The Board also purchased an 8 3/4 acre tract of industrial land north of the [[Timken Roller Bearing Company]] for $800.
 
*  To alleviate the pressing need for more free parking spaces downtown, the Board leased two lots, one south of the Collier Building and one north of the [[Church of God (Wooster, Ohio)]], paying rents on these lots totaling $130 per year. The Board also purchased an 8 3/4 acre tract of industrial land north of the [[Timken Roller Bearing Company]] for $800.
 
*  A Retailers Committee was added to promote "Retailers for Defense Week" and the sale of Defense Stamps.
 
*  A Retailers Committee was added to promote "Retailers for Defense Week" and the sale of Defense Stamps.
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*  By October, Mr. Bowman was chairing the newly formed Military Affairs Committee.
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*  By October, Mr. Surname|Bowman}} was chairing the newly formed Military Affairs Committee.
 +
 
 
====1942====
 
====1942====
 
*  Increasing demands were made on the Board of Trade during the war emergency; however, the Board felt they should continue the giving of assistance to all worthy war efforts, and to assist the people of our community in complying with war regulations and orders. Additional concerns included serious housing conditions due to incoming labor, materials shortages affecting local industries, and inequities between counties of draft calls.
 
*  Increasing demands were made on the Board of Trade during the war emergency; however, the Board felt they should continue the giving of assistance to all worthy war efforts, and to assist the people of our community in complying with war regulations and orders. Additional concerns included serious housing conditions due to incoming labor, materials shortages affecting local industries, and inequities between counties of draft calls.

Revision as of 10:10, 15 February 2021

Wooster Board of Trade
Type Chamber of Commerce
Industry Other Services
Fate Dissolved, Changed name to Wooster Chamber of Commerce
Successor(s) Wooster Chamber of Commerce; Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce
Founded Wooster, Ohio (1900 (1900))
Founder(s) Walter D. Foss
Headquarters Wooster, Ohio, United States
Number of locations 12 W. Liberty St., Wooster, Ohio ( - )
Area served Wayne County, Ohio
Key people Walter D. Foss, first President
Services Networking, Advocacy, Visibility, Professional Development, Opportunities, Credibility

Locations

City Directories

Gallery

  • Wooster Directory 1946

  • Wooster Directory 1949

Comprehensive History

ORGANIZED. Wooster Board of Trade

June 10, 1893: Wooster Board of Trade, CITIZEN INTERESTED. Their Rousing Meeting Last Night. Earnest. Harmonious Action. A Simple. Effective Organization, Admitting Every One With Wooster's Welfare at Heart-- Officers Elected and At Work.

Pursuant to a call by Mayor Jeffries, published in the city papers, an unexpectedly large number of citizen met at Council Chamber last evening to organize the Board of Trade of Wooster.

The meeting was called to order by Mayor Jeffries, who was chosen to president. W. C. Yost was chosen secretary of the evening.

The committee appointed at the preliminary meeting on devising a plan of organization and consisting of Col. C. V. Hand, W. O. Bebee, T. C. Raynolds, W. D. Tyler and Daniek Funck, reported constitution and by-laws for the government of the Board of Trade, which was read and on motion adopted with some minor but excellent changes, which were accepted as soon as suggested.

Then followed the enrollment of members and signing of the constitution. Almost every man present enlisted in the cause of Wooster's welfare, with word from many who were detained in different ways that they would take hold heartily. The "daddy dollars" for dues chinked merrily upon the table, and on motion Mayor Jeffries was elected treasurer pro tem without bond to handle these funds.

When the election of officers was reached, a motion prevailed for the appointment of a committee to select officers and directors, but they reported after consultation it would be better to have the members present vote their choice direct. This was done with the following result. President, Col. C. V. Hard; Vice Presidents, S. B. Husselman, T. C. Raynolds; Treasurer, Dr. W. W. Firestone; Secretary, to be selected by the Executive Committee.

In voting for the six directors, it was resolved that each member should put six names on his ballot of those suggested or other persons with a majority vote required to elect, the two next two years, and the other two one year. Hon. Louis P. Ohliger and Harry McClarran were chosen for three years. J. R. Zimmerman and W. D. Tyler, for two years; George J. Schwartz and W. B. Bryson for one year.

This completed the organization, so far as terms of the constitution required, and it was agreed that the new Executive Committee, consisting of the officers and directors, should meet at 4 o'clock in City Clerk Adams' in the City Hall.

President Hard on taking the chair was called upon for a speech, but said that his only speech would be to get right to business. The selection of standing committees, as provided in the constitution, he thought should wait until the membership has been increased, that being the first duty of all.

On motion, a committee consisting of H. B. Odenkirk, David Nice and George J. Schwartz was named to solicit additional membership among the business men and citizens generally. Those enrolled last night were as follows: James Mullins; J. B. Taylor; Geo J. Schwartz; C. A. McDonald; J. R. Zimmerman; C. V. Hand; L. P. Ohliger; J. F. Barrett; Julian Jeffries; W. D. McClure; Geo. E. Kline; E. Chatelain; S. B. Husselman T. O. Raynolds; B. J. Hartman; H. Burrowes; E. W. Newkirk; C. C. Adam; R. J. Sweeney; H. McClarran; John S. Elliott; A. Cunningham; G. P. Emrich; Elmer Funk; W. W. Firestone; H. B. Odenkirk; John Thompson; Wm. C. Yost; Lemmuel Jeffries; J. E. Barrett; W. B. Bryson; A. W. Shearer; Jacob Palmer; J. T. Keister.

Motion prevailed instructing the Finance Committee of the Board of Trade when formed to communicate with John B. Taylor, as treasurer of the former trade organization now defunct, about the funds he now has belonging thereto, about $80, that money having been intended for the purposed the present organization will undertake. Adjourned.

THE CONSTITUTION - The constitution as prepared is modeled upon those of the Massillon and Canton Boards of Trade, but shortened and simplified from either of them, while the membership fee and for annual dues instead of $5 at only $1 for Wooster, so that no man need plead that as any excuse for keeping out of this movement for the general good. The most important article is the 1st on Name and Objects as follows.

"This association shall be known as the Board of Trade of Wooster, and its object is to collect, preserve and circulate valuable and useful information relating to the business of Wooster, and especially the facts relating to its manufacturing and mercantile interests, to improve our transportation facilities, and in all ways promote the mercantile, manufacturing, commercial and other interests of this city."

The following articles provide for president, vice president and treasurer, and sis directors (two of them elected annually for three years each) to constitute the executive committee, these to include also the secretary, to be elected by the committee, which is the management. The annual meeting is to be on the first Thursday of June each year. The secretary is to have charge of the collection and promulgation of statistics and of correspondence, under the executive committee and in connection with the several standing or special committees. The standing committees are expected to include all members, new members being assigned to them upon election, and are to make annual reports upon their respective departments and special suggestions and reports whenever needed. They are as follows:

  • Public Improvements
  • Railroads and Transportation
  • New Enterprises and Industries
  • Finance
  • Local Mercantile Interests
  • Real Estate
  • Statistics
  • Legislation
  • Produce and Grain
  • Manufacturers
  • Membership
  • Lumber and Coal
  • Taxation
  • Streets and Pavements

The membership is open to all persons of good character. It is provided that all statistics furnished shall be protected as confidential. Of course the routine provisions as to officers' duties, manner of making amendments, etc. are about the usual thing in such cases. [1]

MEET TOMORROW NIGHT - SPECIAL SESSION. WOOSTER BOARD OF TRADE. Every Member or Citizen Willing to Help Asked to Attend to Consider Some Very Important Matters

NOTICE OF MEETING. I am directed to call a meeting of the Board of Trade to be held in City Council Chamber on Wednesday evening of this week to consider some very important matters. It is earnestly desired that every member will be present, and as many new members as can be secured by that time. It is the intention to create one or two new, important committees, and discuss some propositions of interest to the city. C. C. Adams, Sec'y

The officers and directors of "The Board of Trade of Wooster" met in the City Clerk's office last Tuesday to complete its organization and appoint its standing committees. The officers and directors constitute the Executive Committee and are as follows:

STANDING COMMITTEES:

SPECIAL NOTICE Additional members as enrolled will be added to the Committees from time to time, so that every man may have a chance to work for Wooster. [2]

Wooster Board of Trade Last Night: Creamery Question Acted on Favorably-- a Page of Experience-- Other Industries in View-- To Join the State Chamber of Commerce

  • Wooster Board of Trade Last Night [3]

There was a good attendance at the Wooster Board of Trade last evening, when the special meeting was called to order by the president, Col. C. V. Hard. The question of a full creamery in Wooster was the first item taken up, over a third of the needed stock having already been subscribed by a few men quietly, and further action having been delayed until the business could be brought before the Board. In response to calls, John Wilhelm explained the possibilities for profit in connection with the number of farmers during the day had expressed their desire to him to lend a hand in the matter, so that he had no doubt that the 250 cows required as a minimum for a milk supply could easily be secured. Harry McClarran gave recent experiences in the grocery trade in Wooster, showing both farmers and dealers would be better off if all the milk made into butter in Wayne county were handled through creameries. A motion by W. D. Tyler was adopted requesting the chairman to co-operate with Mr. Wilhelm and Capt. R. E. Eddy in a canvass upon the question, and the president designated Messrs. Tyler and McClarran and Capt. W. O. Beebe as such committee.

A new industry that seeks a location in Wooster was considered at some length and with a favorable disposition so far as the info at hand would warrant, but no action was taken upon it, as it was stated that a formal proposition would be presented before long, when the business would come up in tangible shape. It would probably desire a down-town location. Another enterprise was also mentioned as under consideration, but as the matter is not yet advanced sufficiently to be make public, no more than this suggestion in regard to it was presented, leaving its consideration for a future meeting.

J. R. Zimmerman and W. D. Tyler who were at Columbus with Hon L. P. Ohliger, to represent the Wooster Board of Trade at the meeting of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, were called upon to report, and Mr. Z. made an interesting statement. He said that the principal business considered was the Mergenthaler tax inquisition law, which was condemned vigorously by resolutions that requested the Legislature to repeal the law at once as a great damage to the business and industrial interests of the State. The expense of collections under the law, the cost being 34 per cent of all receipts under it, was mentioned as one defect of the law, while its premium upon dishonesty in officials is a danger and its prying into private business and double taxation are driving great interests out of the State. As Wooster has not yet joined the State Chamber of Commerce her representatives were not entitled to a vote, participating only by courtesy, but they found it desirable for this city to be connected with the other cities of Ohio in the new organization, and filed an application for membership. This action was, upon motion, ratified and the president and secretary were requested to take such action to complete the membership as may be needed. As the entrance fee to the State board is $25 to secure its full privilege's. the treasurer, Dr. W. W. Firestone, was asked as to the condition of the Board's finances. His statement showed money enough to meet all engagements, as soon as some who signed the roll last year, but did not pay their dollar at the time, should pay their annual dues for the current year. Besides, there are many business men in Wooster who ought to be members, yet have failed thus far to lend a hand in this enterprise, already so fruitful for the general good. The secretary, C. C. Adams, was instructed to collect all delinquent dues. On motion, adjourned subject to call.

Wooster Board of Trade Meeting

  • Wednesday, September 1894: About 25 members of the Board of Trade attended the special meeting held in the Mayor's office last night. The meeting was called to select delegates to the meeting of the State Board of Commerce, a member of the Executive Committee of the State Board of Commerce and a special committee to confer with the County Commissioners in the matter of securing a new bridge of proper construction over Christmas Run. President C. V. Hard presided. The members selected to serve are as follows:

Delegates to meeting of State Board of Commerce-- C. V. Hard, J. R. Zimmerman, W. J. Mullins.

Member of State Board of Commerce Executive Committee-- L. P. Ohliger

Special Committee to confer with County Commissioners on securing a new bridge over Christmas Run on W. Liberty street-- J. R. Zimmerman, Jacob Frick, Jas. Mullins, Harry McClarran, W. W. Firestone, W. D. Tyler, C. F. Barrett, E. K. Geiselman, David Nice and Geo J. Schwartz.

Tuesday, August 15, 1895, Ought to Be Made a Most Memorable Day for Wooster and Wayne County

  • Tuesday, August 15, 1895, ought to be made a most memorable day for Wooster and Wayne county, particularly since a happy co-incidence has fixed that date for the beginning of the reunion in this city of the Sherman Brigade. For a far greater event is commemorated on that self same day to wit, the one hundredth anniversary of the organization of Wayne county, then a part of the Northwest territory and long before its five great States were so much as though of. During the present week Defiance, Ohio, has show how great a celebration a city of Wooster's size can accomplish by going about it in the right way. Defiance honored the same man, General Anthony Wayne, who name honors our county and what Defiance did, Wooster can do, and in the same way get up a celebration that for importance and magnitude will be noted throughout the nation as that has been. To properly organize the city and county for such a celebration, the work ought to begin without delay, and the Wooster Board of Trade will prove its value by taking up the matter at once, and pushing the work in both city and county, for this concerns all of Wayne county. To begin with, Senator John Sherman should be secured at once as the speaker for the occasion, both because the boys of his brigade will be here and especially because he has been longer identified with this section as a public servant than any other man. Let Wooster go to work for its greatest, most memorable day. [4]

Thursday, September 4, 1902: Wooster Board of Trade: New Officers Elected-- Annual Reports.

  • Wooster Board of Trade: New Officers Elected, Annual Reports [5]

Thursday night, August 27, the annual business meeting of Wooster Board of Trade was held.

The report of President Foss showed that $60,000 had been raised the past year for the University of Wooster and the Pocock Glass Works.

Albert Dix, secretary, reported that about twenty industries had communicated with the Board in regard to location in Wooster during the past year.

C. M. Gray, treasurer, reported as follows:

RECEIPTS
Bal. on hand at last report $68.40
Rec'd from Albert Dix, Sec, for dues $50.00
Total receipts $118.40
DISBURSEMENTS.
Jan. 7, '02 Western Union Telegraph Co. $1.00
Mch. 21, '02 Robert Baird, livery bill $2.00
May 3, '02 Geo. Kottler, distributing bills .50
May 3, '02 H. P. Gravatt & Co. for receipts $1.75
Aug. 28, '02 Postage, Telegrams, Postal cards, etc. for secretary $6.50
Aug. 28, '02 Paid for collecting dues $3.50
Total expenditures $15.25
Balance in treasury $103.15
Bill amounting to $21.25 were passed Thursday night which reduced the balance on hand to $81.90.

Dr. Holden addressed the Board, complimenting the members on the good work done in the past and prophesying better things for the future.

The following officers were elected for the coming year.

President Walter D. Foss; First vice president, Robt. J. Smith; second vice president, I. N. Kinney; secretary, Albert Dix; treasurer, Chas. M. Gray, directors, W. J. Mullins, L. P. Ohliger; D. C. Curry; Geo. J. Schwartz; F. W. Miller; J. M. Criley; A. J. Rich; J. G. Sanborn; J. F. Marchand and R. J. Sweeney. The only new names in the directorate are J. M. Griley and R. J. Sweeny.

Great Things are Dreamed By Wooster Board of Trade: Banquet Thursday Evening, Was One of the Notable Events of Local History, and Wooster Enthusiasm is Now Rampant. Great Things Expected

  • Great Things are Dreamed By Wooster Board of Trade: Banquet Thursday Evening, Was One of the Notable Events of Local History, and Wooster Enthusiasm is Now Rampant. Great Things Expected [6]

Wooster enthusiasm has never been more rampant than it has since the board of trade banquet of Thursday evening. The man who would have the audacity to ask "What the matter with Wooster?" following the burst of enthusiasm for the old town, would be slapped on the back and assured that there's nothing the matter, the old town's coming, some.

Everybody is now for Wooster, all over, and the awakening of enthusiasm was like a good old Methodist revival, where everybody says amen and means it, too.

The banquet was attended by about 200 citizens, and into every citizen who did not have it already was born the boosting spirit. Everything connected with the banquet was all right from start to finish. The Eagles' hall, which the Eagles had so magnanimously given for the occasion, showed up beautifully. The repast was prepared under the direction of H. H. Zeigler, of the American house, and it was faultlessly served as follows:

MENU: Olives, Pickles, Celery, Young Onions, Hot Veal Loaf, Cold Sliced Ham, Potato Salad, June Peas, Strawberries and Cream, Bread and Butter Sandwiches, Vanilla Ice Cream, Fruit, Coffee, Cigars.

PROGRAM: Walter D. Foss, Toastmaster; Music, Orchestra; Duet, Miss Rockey and Mr. Hart; Music, Orchestra; Quartet, Philmel Quartet; Music, Orchestra

BANQUET: Remarks, Walter D. Foss, Pres.; Address, Hon. W. S. Kerr, Ex-Congressman, Mansfield, Ohio; Music, Orchestra; Miscellaneous Talks Limited to Five Minutes

THE MUSIC: The music was simply fine, and consisted of one series of sweet strains after another. Young's orchestra was at its test, and the selections were encored again and again, and the young men were heartily applauded, as they ____ down the line of tables for their suppers. The Philome quartet made a pronounced hit, and was also heartily encored. The duet by Miss Rockey and Mr. Hart was one of the best things of the evening, and the two also were given a royal encore. Altogether the music and singing and feast were but fitting forerunners for the big feast that followed, and after the cigars were lit. President Walter D. Foss, as toastmaster, called the meeting to order. Mr. Foss spoke in a happy vein. as follows:

EVERYONE SHOULD BOOST

"It is very gratifying to me," he said, "to see so many present tonight, and this gathering means much to the prosperity of Wooster. I doubt if ever before in the history of our city were there 200 earnest representative business and professional men thoroughly organized, with but one thought, brought together for a similar purpose and on an occasion like the present. Contemplate for a moment what great things two hundred men, working together harmoniously to the same end might accomplish if every one of us were as unselfishly devoted to the best interests of Wooster, as we are to our families, professions or business, willing to give our time and money, and by our influence and conversation endeavor to induce other citizen to follow our lead.

"We have accomplished great things in the past, our organization was a factor six years ago when the University on the hill was destroyed by fire. Our prompt action enthused Dr. Holden, and the Board of Trade raised over forty-three thousand dollars with-in sixty days, and there arose from the ashes an institution of which we are all justly proud, and she stands today second to non in Ohio-- barring perhaps Ohio State University at Columbus. Two months later we raised over twenty thousand dollars for the Wooster Glass Co. I speak this in a subdued tone of voice, mentioning these two instances merely to remind you of our possibilities. Of course we fall down once in awhile, mistakes may occur occasionally in the best of regulated families. We are not infallible, if we were we would not be here, we'd be up above the clouds, with a little harp and a pair of wings. But whether we get the harp or the wings, you can rest assured that as long as we ARE here, it will be our earnest endeavor to serve the best interests of Wooster to the limit of our ability.

"Our organization is alive-- very much alive the substantial building which greets the vision of the visitor to our city as he alights from his train at the Pennsylvania depot, gives ____ to the fact: and there are more good things to follow. Our committee on new industries is particularly conscious of its responsibility and does not propose to recommend any enterprise to the Board of Trade, and through this organization to our citizens, that will not bear thorough investigation, and this right and proper. Much work has been done which ahs not been made public, and there is much more to be done, and results to be accomplished if we all pull together. Let us through away our hammers, spot the fellow who is a knocker-- join the throng of ""Booster" here assembled, and we will be able to place Wooster where she rightfully belongs by reason of her attractiveness and beautiful surroundings, among the leading industrial cities of this great commonwealth."

KERR WAS ELOQUENT. Mr. Foss introduced W. S. Kerr the brilliant lawyer of Mansfield, who is also a fine orator. Mr. Kerr spoke of many happy memories of "Dear old Wooster," and of people who were dear to him in his profession. He spoke of McSweeney, as a product of Wooster, as one of the ablest lawyers that ever lived. Of Captain A. S. McClure and of the late M. L. Smyser he spoke in the most respectful terms.

"A problem to be solved, he said is where the people will go, now that the land is all occupied, and it may be that while the trend through the centuries has been westward, it will now turn about and be eastward. All our problems will produce leaders, such as Abraham, Mcsop, Wilherforce, Lincoln and Rooselvelt have been in their times."

Mr. Kerr spoke of the adversity of the last few months and said the people have been money mad, "We simply have been guilty of capitalizing our prosperity," he said. "The only way we can right ourselves is to build in our corporations till they reach their present capitalization in actual value." Mr. Kerr urged the much talked of publicly as one of the things that will tend to do away with corporation abuses. "At Mansfield. he said "we didn't have as many at our board of trade banquet as you have here. I would advise that these neighboring towns send delegations to each other's banquets, and thus engender a fellow feeling.

ON TOWN AND GOWN President L. E. Holden made one of the happiest speeches of the evening on 'The Town and Gown." The town people think we college people are not interested in them, and their success," he said. "but I assure you that we are. I have gone out in the highways and the byways and told the world about you loyal business men of Wooster, and of what you have done, and my story has enabled me to bring back a million and four hundred thousand dollars to Wooster in the last nine years. The faculty has stood my back these nine years, and has been loyal to you and the community."

"The town was here before the gown,' he said, "Wooster university is first and foremost the university of Wayne county. Wayne county invited the synod to establish this university here. You are the hosts of the University of Wooster and we are your guests. After 35 years you had a chance to tell us you didn't want us any longer, but you didn't. You invited us back again, and put up $43,000 to show us that we were doubly welcome.

"I see that this is your first annual banquet. We've had them for nine years, so we are just eight years ahead of you, but we want you to come up every year, and especially do we invite you this year. I think it's time the town ought to come up and get acquainted with the gown." Dr. Holden asked all who would come up to the basket picnic on commencement day to stand up, and every in the hall stood up and applauded both the invitation and the speaker.

WOOSTER HERE FIRST J. M. Criley when called on said he knew of no reason why by rights we should send to Mansfield for a speaker, for Wooster was here before Mansfield was on the map.

"It is impossible to tell of the possibilities of this city." said Mr. Criley "if everyone puts his shoulder to the wheel and helps. We must all be willing to contribute when the time comes," he said, "We want to have a better feeling.' Mr. Criley spoke of the honest and integrity of the business me of Wooster.

COST HIM $50 Mr. Foss states that F. W. Miller would be unable to be here at the banquet as an unexpected business matter had come up at a late hour at Canton. Mr. Miller promised Mr. Foss that the absence would cost him $50 when Wooster went after her next factory, however.

A TEN THOUSAND CLUB Mayor Van Nest said that enthusiasm like this surely means that there is to be something doing soon. We want everybody to turn himself into a booster, and we want to have 10,000 population in 1910," he said. He urged that there be hearty co-operation among the business men to get this population, and the suggestion was received with applause.

ACCOMPLISHING RESULTS J. C. Schultz, of the new industry committee said he had spent more time the past year prying into other people's business than he had looking after his own. "I've been so busy," he said, "that one Friday night I went to church they thought I was on some new industry business and couldn't find me when I was wanted at the long distance. I want to know," said Schultz, "how many of you will get a new member of the board of trade by Saturday night." Here everybody stoop up, and applauded again. "Now remember I want you to get them" said Schultz "or pay a dollar. I've got mine in sight now." Schultz spoke of a new industry in sight and said he wanted everybody to pitch in and help get it. "We've got three new industries in the last year" he said.

SPOKE OF VISITS George J. Schwartz spoke of visits to enterprising towns such as Marion and Munice, Ind., and said they all gave him encouragement to boost Wooster. He spoke of the formation of the Boosters' club and urged that the spirit of this organization be encouraged.

WOOSTER HAS THE BEST E. S. Wertz told how Wooster leads many lines, and urged going out after other things. Mr. Wertz made a happy speech and said he wanted to take up the Good Roads proposition with the board in the near future.

MINISTERIAL BUSINESS MAN Rev. Frank Heilman said he had not been accustomed to considering himself a business man, but since hearing the remarks of those present had concluded that ministers are practical business men in that they help direct the moral order of the community and help other busy men keep in touch with higher things.

After telling the member of the board to all be present at the organization of the board in midsummer, and asking them all to boost in the meantime the banquet was ended with the signing of "Auld Lang Syne."

Want City Service: An Effort Is To Be Made To Have Car Lines Built in Wooster

  • Want City Service: An Effort Is To Be Made To Have Car Lines Built in Wooster. [7]

The Board of Directors of the Wooster Board of Trade is going to make an effort to get city street car service for Wooster. The matter was mentioned at the recent Board of Trade smoker. The directors have been talking it over quietly for some time and it is stated that a strong effort to land the service is to be made.

It is figured that city car service can be secured in two way. The Cleveland & Southwestern can extend its lines to take in several streets, or the Massillon, Wooster & Mansfield line, if it is built, could put in city service.

Directors, it is said, would favor a line out East Bowman St., towards the new allotment, down to the Pennsylvania depot, out to the Experiment Station and perhaps west to the fair grounds.

It is argued that nearly all the available building space has been taken up within a reasonable distance of the square and that if persons who work down town are to build houses at a greater distance from the square, they must have a way to get to and from their work. Street car service is the solution. One city street car making hourly trips and the regular cars would give a half hour service which would, for the present, probably take care of the traffic. It is believed that cars running to the Experiment Station and the University would carry many passengers while the depot would also be a good terminal.

Has Money In Treasury: Board of Trade Reports Show Big Boom in Store for Wooster During Coming Here

  • Has Money In Treasury: Board of Trade Reports Show Big Boom in Store for Wooster During Coming Here [8]

Two hundred and sixty-nine members of the Wooster Board of Trade feasted on dainty eatable, satisfactory reports of committees and optimistic and enthusiastic speeches at the annual meeting and banquet of the Board held Tuesday evening at the American Hotel.

When the inner man had been well satisfied, President W. D. Foss called the meeting to order, and the reports of the various committees were given. Owing to the illness of Mrs. Dix, Secretary Albert Dix was unable to be present and his report was read by E. S. Landes it follows:

The first annual meeting of the Wooster Board of Trade was held at the Archer House, Jan. 26, 1909, with 121 members present.

Ten directors were elected as follows: Walter D. Foss, Albert Dix, J. M. Criley, C. M. Gray, J. C. Schultz, Nick Amster, Wm. Annat, W. G. Christy, E. W. Thompson and W. R. Barnhart.

On February 1, 1909, these directors met and elected the following five additional directors: H. Freedlander, E. S. Landes, George Gerstenslager, M. M. Van Nest and Geo J. Schwartz making 15 ________ as required by the Constitution. The directors organized by electing Walter D. [[Foss, President, John C. Schultz, First Vice President, M. M. Van Nest, Second Vice President, Albert Dix, Secretary and C. M. Gray, Treasurer.

This board has held over fifty meetings since that date and have considered many propositions from industries wishing to locate in Wooster Contracts were made with the Canton-Hughes Pump Co. The Monitor Sand Iron ___ and The Buckeye Aluminum Co..

The Monitor ____ Iron Co. forfeited its contract which was cancelled. The others are going ahead and by next summer will be working with full force.

The board invested the money collected from the Glass Works Co. in land which was sold in lots to furnish the money to pay the above named firms to locate in Wooster. There is still another Industry that can be got this years if the Board and Boosters feel as though it is best. It will cost from $10,000 to $15,000 and a site and is The Gravity Carriers Co. of St. Paul. Respectfully submitted, ALBERT Dix, Secretary

In the absence of Chairman Schwartz, President Foss gave the report of the Railroad committee, showing that the committee had done much work in regard to the switch for the Canton-Hughes Pump Co. ________ that it had been finally determined that the Board should give $1500 and do the grading for the switch, while the Railroad Co. is to pay $1,000.

Mr. Landes gave the report of the Real Estate Committee, showing the following purchases of lands: From G. W. Spangler, three acres, $2,000, from Anna Lytle, one acre, $350, from E. S. Landes, land, $700, from John McSweeney, 16 acres, $3500, from Nold estate, ten acresm $3,000, from George Kreiger, land, $1,300, from Mr. Odenkirk, 40 acres, $18,000. Mr. Landes states that enough land is owned by the Board of Trade to make 50 lots in addition to the 300 sold, and that besides this there are seven factory sites on which eight factories are to be located.

H. H. Freedlander gave the report of the membership committee and this was followed by the final report of the evening, that of President W. D. Foss. It follows in full.

Gentlemen of the Wooster Board of Trade

The end of the tenth year of this organization finds us in a very happy and optimistic frame of mind. Business conditions, and the outlook for Wooster, at times, during the past decade, were not always what we wished they were or what we hoped they would be, but after having listened to the very encouraging reports or the several committees, especially that of the New Industries Committee, is there a man before me who is not optimistic? And have we not good reason to be so? Where is there city in the Union of the size of Wooster, the City of Progress that accomplished the remarkable feat of selling three hundred lots, the total aggregating over $77,000.00 in one day? Then contemplate the benefits we may reasonably expect to receive when the two magnificent manufacturing concerns are in ____________ will be before another year rolls around and possibly before the summer is over. The securing of these factories was made possible through this record breaking sale. And how was our success attained? Through hearty co-operation, good feeling, and willingness of everyone of the sixty men who started out on the memorable morning of Sept. 20, 1910, to win. The people were with us, and we won.

G. A. Hudson at this juncture made a short speech in which he suggested that the Board of Trade band next summer run a business men's excursion, the proceeds of which could be devoted to the new Wooster band. He suggested that it be approved by the Board of Trade and a committee named to assist in the arrangements. This suggestion met with the hearty approval of all present, and a motion to carry it out was unanimously adopted. This will be the one big excursion from Wooster during the summer.

At this point the election of a new board of ten directors was held. The ten men elected will meet next Monday night and select five additional members, as provided by the constitution of the Board. The following men were placed in nomination:

Messrs Dr. Blechele, E. S. Landes, W. D. Foss, C. M. Gray, W. G. Chris-______, Nick Amster, W. R. Curry, Max Bloomberg, H. H. Freedlander, M. M. Van Nest, Albert Dix, E. W. Thompson, J. C. Schultz, W. A. Craig, E. S. Wertz, George Gerstenslager, W. R. Barnhart, F. E. Boigegrain, G. A. Hudson, Wm Long, R. R. Woods, Wm Annat, W. B. Bryson, E. Paumier, R. L. Adair, H. H. Whiting, J. T. Keister and J. J. Keister.

President Foss appointed the following tellers: W. G. Whitaker, Harry Newman and S. H. Dawson. the tellers retired, and later on in the evening reported the following men of the ten receiving the highest number of votes as the ones elected.

E. S. Landes, J. C. Schultz, Nick Amster, Dr. Biechele, E. W. Thompson, W. R. Barnhart, Albert Dix, W. D. Foss, H. H> Whiting, and H. H. Freedlander.

One of the best addresses of the evening was given by J. M. Criley.

"What I may say may be in the nature of a farewell," said Mr. Criley, and if tears come to my eyes, I shall not be ashamed of them, for in this great school of life you men have taught me what I know, and I should be ungrateful indeed to leave you without feeling a pang in my heart. With your sympathy and help, I have tried to be equal to the tasks assigned to me." Mr. Criley spoke of his school days and then compared the work of school with the work of life in a very masterly fashion ______ great privilege to have attended the university, but a greater one to have attended the school of life among you where every lesson was learned by experience. In the school of life we studied arithmetic, and in one day we learned to make $80,000 out of $18,000, we studied surveying, and the best part is that each one of us will get a piece of the land we survey. We've studied music, and the fine Wooster band is the result, we've learned the dignity of labor, learned that every busy man is a business man, that honest business is business and that dishonest business isn't anything. A studied never grows old. The student body and the University is as young now as it was a score of years ago. This Board of Trade does not grow old. Our leading citizens never grow old, our worthy toastmaster wears his hair white because it is becoming that way and I can well remember the time when President Foss has no hair at all. Dr. Blechele came among us a helpless invalid, and look at him now. Mr. Criley quoted some lines from Oliver Wendell Holmes poem "The Boys" to close his splendid speech. At Mr. Criley's suggestion the entire body arose to pay a silent tribute to the member of B. F. Thorne who died Tuesday, and who was referred to as one of the worthy boys and a citizen of whom all had been proud.

Mayor W. E. Freeman during his remarks, asked that the Board of Trade appoint a committee to act in conjunction with the G. A. R. committee for the observance of Memorial Day. This suggestion was approved and a committee will be named to make Memorial Day a more pronounced tribute to the soldier dead than it has ever been before. The hour was late and no more speakers were called upon. The meeting was the most successful in the history of the Board of Trade, and a spirit of good fellowship and social_____ scarcely ever seen in Wooster was manifest throughout.

Is Growing to Beat the Band as Result of the Combined: Efforts of Board of Trade and Realty Men of This City

  • Is Growing to Beat the Band as Result of the Combined: Efforts of Board of Trade and Realty Men of This City. [9]

At the annual meeting of the Board of Trade Tuesday evening Feb. 4, some very interesting things regarding the progress Wooster has made during the past few years will crop out.

Reports from various sources indicate that the past year has shown a greater percentage of growth than any previous one, and that the outlook for the coming year is brighter than ever.

One new factory is in line. It is a concern that will employ about __ people, and the owners expect to erect a two-story brick building here during the spring. All the city needs to do is give them a location. The matter is practically closed up and will be announced soon.

Inquiry at the waterworks department shows that water has been installed in 98 homes during the past six months. Many of these were new homes, others were those where bath rooms were added.

City council having finished a busy year in the improvement line, is branching out to do still more work during the coming year. No ____ than 15 streets are being considered for paving and sewerage. All cannot be taken care of this year, but many of them will.

County commissioners are planning to pave four miles of Wayne county road, and the Ohio legislature may make it possible to do even more than this.

Wooster men and Wayne county farmers are planning the construction of homes on the Board of Trade allotment, and in other places about the city. Definite arrangements to build at least 20 houses have been made. All of these are to be good, modern homes, and, besides, it is expected that many will be built to rent, especially those to be erected on the allotment.

The Buckeye Aluminum company has built two additions during the past year, the Canton-Hughes Pump company is planning the erection of a foundry building, and the Cataract Rubber company is about ready to start work. The Brush Works, Pad Works, Shale Brick Works and the buggy company are all making great strides forward, and the industrial outlook could not be better.

Members of Board of Trade Meet

  • Members of Board of Trade Meet. [10]

Over three hundred member of the Wooster Board of Trade attended the adjourned annual meeting held Tuesday evening in their new hall over the Citizens' National bank.

They heard good music, excellent reports, stirring, enthusiastic speeches, relected the present board of directors and then partook of sandwiches and coffee.

The capacity of the hall was taxed, but the members were not crowded, the seats having been admirably arranged.

Shortly after 8 o'clock, when the members had assembled, President, John C. Schultz called the meeting to order and Rev. E. E. Young pronounced the invocation.

George Brant sand an excellent solo, and was heartily encored.

President Schultz at this time announced that because of illness Judge Weygandt would not be present to make the address, as expected, and that a few changes in the program would be necessary. He then called for reports of the various committees.

The playing of the Franks orchestra was one of the features of the evening.

E. S. Landes, for the New Industry committee, reported having landed one new one, the Cedar Moss company, which is to start operation here not later than Sept. 1.

"Our committee had a couple more in sight and a better report may be looked forward to next year." He said. The committee during the past year worked without funds.

Chairman W. D. Foss of the Committee of Railroads and Transportation, reported that damage caused by flood to the side track to the Canton Hughes Pump company had been repaired, and through cooperation with the city water was diverted so that no further trouble occurred. In discussing the inter-switching proceedings, Mr. Foss spoke of the victor that had been won in September, in which the two railroads were given 90 days to build the switch. He than stated that the railroads appealed the case to common pleas court at Columbus where it is now pending and where it will be prosecuted by the attorney general.

George Gerstenslager on public improvements reported that the committee had done its part in having the road past the fair grounds paved and had then quit boosting in order to allow the allotment work to proceed as rapidly as possible.

C. A. Weiser, Chairman of the legal committee, reported that the committee had a hard years work. Contracts with the Aluminum company were changed to allow the company to expand, many deeds were given for lots full paid up contract with the Cedar Moss company was formulated and contracts were drawn up for the sale of the McCreary plant to the Cataract Rubber company.

W. R. Barnhart reported for the manufacturing committee, and Albert Dix for the publicity committee, the latter saying that the committee had given all the news of the Board of Trade to the newspapers so that members knew what was going on.

H. H. Freedlander, for the produce and grain committee, reported that the wheat crop was a failure and so was the committee.

E. W. Thompson, chairman of the finance committee had a very interesting report, of which the following are extracts.

{ (surname)|- ! Membership Fund.]][[Category:Individuals with Error: String exceeds 1,000 character limit. Surname]] was chairing the newly formed Military Affairs Committee.

1942

  • Increasing demands were made on the Board of Trade during the war emergency; however, the Board felt they should continue the giving of assistance to all worthy war efforts, and to assist the people of our community in complying with war regulations and orders. Additional concerns included serious housing conditions due to incoming labor, materials shortages affecting local industries, and inequities between counties of draft calls.

1943

  • Harry Landes succeeded Director Harold Freedlander who was inducted into the army.
  • Board President Ray Dix spearheaded the renewal of the sustaining fund to prepare the Board financially and otherwise to try to obtain new industry for Wooster after the war.
  • The Board participated in a survey to determine the number of persons available for employment in Wooster to meet the need for 600 new employees in the next 6 months (70% male, 30% female).
  • The manufacturers endorsed special payments to the Board to hire additional personnel and expand the office space to meet their special needs.
  • Mr. Harry Domhoff was hired to conduct the Board's membership campaign. He signed 800 members. Minimum dues were $25.00.

1944

  • All segments of the business community contributed to the sustaining fund. Sixty-four men representing all lines of retail and professional business went on record as approving this solicitation of funds for the purpose of securing suitable factory sites and other expenses incurred in locating new industries and expanding existing industries.
  • The Board purchased 40 acres from the College of Wooster, north of Bowman and east of Palmer streets, for future industrial expansion.
  • A Factory Site Committee was appointed to local additional industrial land, especially land surrounding railroad sidings.
  • Two other committees were formed, one to plan for a community center, and one to confer with the city to revive the City Planning Commission to formulate plans for the future expansion and growth of our city.

1945

  • A letter was received from the Wooster Business Men's Association asking the Board to assume all functions formerly performed by them, with the exception of credit reporting.
  • A committee of three was appointed to be known as the Retail Division to represent the mercantile interests.
  • One thousand "City of Wooster" booklets were printed for promotional work.
  • When the Board learned the Nicolay-Dancey Co. of Detroit was having difficulty completing negotiations for the purchase of the Sherman Funk farm, the Board of Trade paid the unnegotiable $1,000 to insure their relocation. In exchange, the Board received permission to connect with their railroad siding for the future use of additional industries who might locate in that area.

1946

  • "For the elimination of the unsightly garbage and scrap dumps on the city limits," the Board formed the Rubbish Dump Committee to find a solution.
  • President Amos Buchman reported on his meeting with a committee of young men interested in forming a Junior Board of Trade. By year's end, this organization was underway.
  • The Directors authorized construction of a railroad siding, on the 40-acre site they had purchased from the College, to serve new and existing industries at that location.

1947

  • This year's committees included: Industrial, Farmer Relations, Junior Board of Trade, Membership, New Industry, Highway, Safety & Traffic, Finance, Public Relations, Town & College, Veterans Housing, Federal & State Legislative, Taxation, Retail Division, and Telephone.
  • The new railroad siding was in place on E. Bowman Street and five companies, Silver Brothers Inc, The Wooster Rubber Company, Gerstenslager Company, Wooster Brass, and Bauer Manufacturing Company bought land there to gain rail transportation access.
  • Executive Secretary Richard tendered his resignation effective January 1, 1948.

1948

  • Mr. Gerald Barker, formerly of the Akron Chamber of Commerce, became the next Executive Secretary.
  • International Paper Company came to Wooster, locating their plant on a 10-acre site owned by the Board of Trade on Palmer Street. The Board sold parcels from the old O'Hail property to Theodore Bogner & Sons (Bogner Construction Company) and Walter H. Jones.
  • Poor phone service caused the Board to take action. After estimating the cost to produce the phone company's yellow pages directory to be approximately $1,800, and ascertaining they had collectively paid more than $14,000 for yellow pages ads, the Board's members withdrew their display advertising. Phone service improved.

1949

  • The Board of Trade borrowed $6,000 to purchase land on Route 30 west of town for the new armory. This land was turned over to the state, and the loan repaid later through a fund drive.
  • Action by the Wooster Business Men's Association reversed the decision of the Pennsylvania Railroad to make Wooster a non-stop for the eastbound Manhattan Limited passenger train.
  • A Community Project Steering Committee, organized by the Board to schedule local fund raising campaigns, refused to act until the fund drive for the new hospital was completed.

1950

  • Chamber members voted 320 YES, 8 NO to change the name of the Wooster Board of Trade to the Wooster Chamber of Commerce.

Timeline

Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce Timeline[11]

  • 1893 - June 10, Organized Col. C. V. Hard, President [12]
  • 1900 - Organized, Walter D. Foss, first President
  • 1908 - December 13, Incorporated in State of Ohio as a not for profit organization. The incorporators are: Walter D. Foss; Albert Dix; John M. Criley; John C. Schultz; and C. M. Gray. [13]
  • 1909 - January 26, First annual meeting of the Wooster Board of Trade was held at the Archer House with 121 members present. [14]
  • 1910 - The Board of Trade Band was organized. [15]
  • 1911 - The minutes of all Board meetings have been archived. [16]
  • 1912 - The Wayne County Fair Board asked that the businessmen of Wooster close their places of business for two days during the Wayne County Fair.
  • 1950 - Wooster Board of Trade members voted to change the name to Wooster Chamber of Commerce.

Gallery

Business Letterheads

Business Photos

  • 1908 Wooster Board of Trade [17]

Newspaper articles

Newspaper full-text articles

1917

1919

1920

Newspaper ads

Newspaper citations with no attached images

1800s

  • June 16, 1893: "A Shaky Building. Might Cause a Flourishing Firm to Leave the City. But Wooster Will Not Have it That Way-- a Good Case for Board of Trade Action", Wooster Daily Republican, p. 1.
  • July 05, 1893: "Editorial: by Wooster Republican & Wayne County Democrat response", Wooster Democrat, p. 2.
  • March 17, 1894: "Import Business: Wooster Board of Trade Last Night: Creamery Question Acted on Favorably", Wooster Daily Republican, p. 4.

1900s

  • March 07, 1901: "To Locate in Wooster - Manufacture of railway locomotive and tubular steel cars", Wayne County Herald, p. 2.
  • July 31, 1901: "Going to Get Them: Wagener Pump Will Be brought to Wooster - Board of Trade Meeting", Wooster Republican, p. 5.
  • September 04, 1902: "Wooster Board of Trade: New Officers Elected, Annual Reports", Wayne County Herald, p. 1.
  • September 03, 1902: "The New Officers: Elected by the Wooster Board of Trade: Annual Reports Are Made", Wooster Republican, p. 2.
  • October 16, 1902: "The Wooster Board of Trade has shown whole hearted activity....", Wayne County Herald, p. 2.
  • January 21, 1903: "Shale Land Bought. Another Industry to Be Established in Wooster: The Boydston Farm Purchased by Capitalists", Wayne County Democrat, p. 3.
  • August 19, 1903: "Officers Chosen. Annual Meeting of The Wooster Board of Trade. Report of the Treasurer", Wooster Republican, p. 5.
  • February 15, 1905: "At a meeting of the executive committee of the Wooster Board of Trade.... demand $40,500... from the Pococks of Massillon", Wayne County Democrat, p. 3.
  • June 14, 1905: "New Road in Six Month: If Towns Along the Lien Will Float the Bonds", Wooster Republican, p. 6.
  • March 06, 1907: "The Wooster Case: Will Be Heard Some Time This Spring in Cleveland", Wooster Republican, p. 7.
  • April 24, 1907: "A Harmony Plan Urged: W. D. Foss Urges All to Work for Wooster", Wooster Republican, p. 6.
  • July 31, 1907: "Have Plans for Future: Board of Trade Annual Meeting in the Near Future", Wooster Republican, p. 2.
  • September 09, 1908: "Bartholomew Not President: Committee Disappointed Three Times, Fears Road Has Little Backing", Wayne County Democrat, p. 1.

1910s

  • July 20, 1910: "Wooster Gets Big Factory: Pump Factory Employing Two Hundred Men Will Come From Canton", Wayne County Democrat, p. 1.
  • February 01, 1911: "Has Money in Treasury: Board of Trade Reports Show Big Boom in Store for Wooster During Coming Here", Wayne County Democrat, p. 6.
  • March 15, 1911: "The Wooster Board of Trade... Give the 75 Ashland Members of the Board of Trade a Fine Reception", Wayne County Democrat, p. 3.
  • February 07, 1912: "Want City Service: An Effort Is to Be Made to Have Car Lines Built in Wooster", Wayne County Democrat, p. 1.
  • November 17, 1915: "Massillon To Be Terminal: Norton From Cleveland, Declares Road Will Miss Wooster if Board is Firm", Rittman Press, p. 1.

1950s

1960s

  • October 30, 1968: "Wooster Board of Trade Founded Basis Of Present Day Industries" by Guy Richard, The Daily Record, p. 0.

References

  1. ↑ Wooster Daily Republican, Wooster, Ohio. 1893 Jun 10, p.1.
  2. ↑ Wooster Daily Republican, Wooster, Ohio. 1893 Jun 20, p.1.
  3. ↑ Wooster Board of Trade Last Night. Wooster Daily Republican, Wooster, Ohio. 1894 Mar 17, p. 4.
  4. ↑ Wooster Republican, Wooster, Ohio. 1894 Aug 15, p.1.
  5. ↑ Wayne County Herald, Wooster, Ohio. 1902 Sept 4, p. 1.
  6. ↑ Wooster Republican, Wooster, Ohio. 1908 May 27, p. 6.
  7. ↑ Wayne County Democrat, Wooster, Ohio. 1912 Feb 7, p. 1.
  8. ↑ Wayne County Democrat, Wooster, Ohio. 1911 Feb 1, p. 8.
  9. ↑ Wooster Daily News, Wooster, Ohio. 1913 Jan. 25, p. 1.
  10. ↑ Wayne County Democrat, Wooster, Ohio. 1913 Feb. 7, p. 2.
  11. ↑ Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce timeline.
  12. ↑ Wooster Republican, Wooster, Ohio. 1893 Jun 10, p. 1.
  13. ↑ Wooster Republican, Wooster, Ohio. 1908 Dec 16, p. 6.
  14. ↑ Wayne County Democrat, Wooster, Ohio. 1911 Feb 1, p. 8.
  15. ↑ 90 Years of Looking to the Future: 1900-1990. by Elaine Manges. Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce. 1990.
  16. ↑ 90 Years of Looking to the Future: 1900-1990. by Elaine Manges. Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce. 1990.
  17. ↑ Pic from Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce
  18. ↑ Wooster Daily Republican. Wooster, Ohio, 1917-01-16, p. 2
  19. ↑ Wooster Daily Republican. Wooster, Ohio, 1917-01-25, p. 2
  20. ↑ Wooster Daily Republican. Wooster, Ohio, 1917-02-07, p. 3
  21. ↑ Wooster Daily Republican. Wooster, Ohio, 1917-03-22, p. 2
  22. ↑ Wooster Republican. Wooster, Ohio, 1919-02-14, p. 3.
  23. ↑ Wooster Republican. Wooster, Ohio, 1920-01-02, p. 2.
  24. ↑ Wooster Republican. Wooster, Ohio, 1920-01-02, p. 3.
  25. ↑ Wooster Daily Republican. Wooster, Ohio, 1920-01-16, p. 4

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