History of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce
The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce began its long history as the Board of Trade of Chester and Vicinity on April 11, 1887.

“The Board of Trade is an organized body through which the citizens may operate to further the progress, business interests and welfare of the city and its people.”

Being over 130 years old, the Chamber has had many titles and, at a times, was a few separate operating organizations that have since merged and is now known as the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce.

In the very early years of operation, annual dues were only $5 and interest primarily revolved around topics and concerns of the citizens of that time, such as:

• the removal of the quarantine station at the Lazaretto
• location of the Williamson Industrial School
• building a bridge over Chester Creek at Ninth Street
• extending the Reading Rail Road to Marcus Hook
• improving the paving of streets and extending the sewerage

In April 1913, a non-profit organization formed and it was known as the Chamber of Commerce City of Chester and Delaware County with a similar mission, but less trade focused. Sometime after World War II, the organizations merged in 1947.

From 1947–1960, the name bounced back and forth from “Chamber of Commerce City of Chester and Delaware County” to “Delaware County Chamber of Commerce”. Finally, in 1960, an amendment was made to the Articles to formally make the name the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce with the purpose of encouraging and protecting trade and commerce.

In 1980, the Chamber moved from Chester to Media run by long-time President, Jack Holefelder. Throughout history, the Chamber board, staff and its members have dedicated their time to ensuring the success of Delaware County. Since its inception, Delaware County has seen millions of dollars’ worth of development and thousands of jobs have been created due to the work of the Chamber.  

The Chamber has over 900 members and is under the leadership of a long time chamber executive, Trish McFarland.

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“You owe it to yourself, the city, the nation and humanity to contribute some of your time and means to further the good that may be done all around you . . . the Board of Trade wishes you all the success obtainable and aims to help you get it.”

Sources: Some facts were cited from "The Board of Trade of Chester Presents Some Facts", © 1907.

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