Promoting the economic growth and prosperity of our business community since 1874
The Fox Cities Chamber (formerly the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce & Industry) is the result of a marriage of two business organizations, with roots forming more than 150 years ago. Those original groups were the Appleton Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Commerce of Neenah-Menasha.
In 1874, businesses were starting to thrive in the Fox Cities, and a group of forward-thinking business men realized that they could achieve more as a group. By uniting the interests of all local businesses, they knew they could advance the prosperity of the region better. Thus the idea for the Appleton Chamber of Commerce was born and the start of a collaborative organization created to be a strong voice of business in the community.
The Chamber was formed on September 9, 1874, with 21 members signing the constitution. The first president was Augustus Ledyard (A.L.) Smith, a mayor of the young city and a founder of the First National Bank. The Chamber had its ups and downs in the early years but endured, and in 1920 it was reorganized amid much fanfare, when 612 men became members in one day. It was incorporated April 3, 1920, with W.C. Wing as its first chairman.
Little is known of the early history of the Chamber of Commerce of Neenah-Menasha, except that it, too, traces its history back more than 100 years. It is believed that during the first half of the twentieth century, several businessmen’s associations were started in Neenah, but none of them existed for more a few months or a few years.
In 1940, a group of Neenah business men formed the Chamber of Commerce of Neenah, with Otto Lieber elected as first president. In 1946 the directors of the Neenah Chamber invited Menasha businesses to join with them and reincorporated as the Chamber of Commerce of Neenah-Menasha.
On August 1, 1976, the Appleton and Neenah-Menasha organizations consolidated to become the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry, creating a broader geographical service base and range of business interests. At the time, the Appleton Area Chamber of Commerce had 749 members, and the Chamber of Commerce of Neenah-Menasha had 210. John Bergstrom of Neenah was elected president of the newly formed Chamber, which made its headquarters in what had been the offices of the Appleton group.
Through the years, the Fox Cities Chamber has a been a driving force in economic growth of our community and ensuring the success of our business community.
A group of Appleton business leaders met at the Waverly House in August to consider a Chamber for the city.
In September, 21 men officially signed the Chamber charter. Membership was $3 and mayor A.L. Smith was board president.
Ulysses S. Grant was president of the U.S., and Harry Houdini was born in Budapest but later moved to Appleton with his family.
The Menasha Chamber of Commerce was organized around this time, just 7 years after the U.S. Chamber formed.
Studies show that consumers are 74 percent more likely to be aware of a business — and 80 percent more likely to spend money there — if that business is a Chamber member. Let us help you connect, lead, and grow your business as an official member. Learn more about how the Fox Cities Chamber can serve your business
