From the day it commenced operation in the summer of 1928, the Chamber of Commerce has played an active role in the development of Whitby.

Highlights over the years:

1928: One of the priorities for the Chamber was the development of Whitby's Harbour. Through the efforts of the Chamber, the Town was able to receive a commitment from the Federal Government, owners of the harbour, for dredging and reconstruction of concrete wharves.

The Chamber also urged the Town council to purchase the land north of Centennial Park to Trent Street, which was on the real estate market for a cost of $3,000

1903's: Throughout the Great Depression of the 30's, the Whitby Chamber has an active role in assisting those in need of the town. The Chamber administered a Christmas Cheer and Welfare fund to provide food and clothing for destitute families, and also set up cots in the basement of old town hall where transients could spend the night in comfort.

1940's: From 1942-1945, the Chamber disbanded but was rived early in 1945 by William Davidson, one of the most prominent boosters of Whitby, who served as Mayor and as chairman of the Industrial Commission in later years. In the late 1940's, the Chamber was quite successful in bringing small industries to Whitby, including the Empire Pant and Boy's Waer, Natalie Knitting Mills, and William J Anderson company, which made jewelery boxes. In 1947, the Dunlop Rubber Company, chose Whitby as a site for it's new factory which cost the Chamber $2,500 but gave the town it first large industry and 250 jobs.

1950's: Dunlop went on to sponsor Whitby's1958 world champaign hockey team, The Whitby Dunlops, which brought international fame to our town. In 1959 the Chamber played host to sailors from the H.M.S. Whitby, from England. In 1954 the Chamber sponsored Whitby's first Santa Claus parade, which in the 60's was taken over by the Junior Chamber.

1960's: In 1964 the Chamber went to the aid of the Town when it was in dispute with local ambulance service which has withdrawn its services. For a few months, the Chamber was responsible for keeping the service running on schedule. In the early 60's William Davidson was responsible for a series of trade fairs held by the Chamber in the old arena. One of the features at the trade fair was the industrial dinner, at which the Peter Perry Award was presented to Whitby's outstanding citizen of the year. In 1966, President Jack Woodward and a special committee established the County Town Carnival which was held every summer since.

1980's: The Chamber was instrumental in having a fishing weigh station installed at the Port of Whitby for use during the fishing contest sponsored by Oshawa and Toronto Newspapers. In 1985 the Whitby Chamber was apart of the Durham Fitness Council which co-ordinated a Corporate Challenge for the region's businesses. From 1985-1987 the Chamber played a significant part in the Ontario Governments youth trust program to study youth employment problems.

1990's: In 1991 due to growth, the Chamber moved locations to a larger office on Byron street. Later on that year, again because of growth, the Chamber moved to it's current location at 128 Brock St. In 1994 the monthly newsletter received a new format, the 7th

Annual Golf Tournament was even bigger and better than past years and the Chamber continued to grow. In 1997 the Chamber newsletter was produced in-house which meant it gave the Chamber more flexibility and more time for those submitting articles. As of January 1997 membership was at 500.

2000's: After a lot of effort the Chamber helped get the green light for the 407 to be brought east to Brock Road. As of 2003 membership was 640. In 2003 the Chamber redesigned their website and the Chamber implemented the first corporate strategic plan.

Celebrating 80 years in 2008 was a highlight of the Chamber as the chamber continues to grow and now at over 1000 members. The men and women who volunteer thsir time, dedicate themselves to the economic development and promotion of their community. The strength of the community - leading the way - providing leadership and vision.

The Whitby Chamber of Commerce - Where Business Connects!