History of the Chamber

The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce has over 70 years of history serving the needs of its members and helping businesses succeed. Through the decades, the Chamber has assisted in building vital relationships that matter. The Chamber’s focus on free enterprise, economic development, tourism, and support of local charities has been their legacy.

Residents of Cherokee County knew the importance of supporting and strengthening businesses and the economy, so, in 1925, the first discussions of opening a Chamber of Commerce began and the Gaffney Chamber of Commerce was finally established January 30, 1947. Because of that continued determination and commitment to improve the quality of life for all in the entire county, encompassing Blacksburg, the Gaffney Chamber adopted the name Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce October 21, 1977.

The passion that was exhibited over 90 years ago continues today. We remain passionate about the free enterprise, education, healthcare, tourism, economic development, community development, and workforce development. We fight for local business and what they believe to be important to them.

January 30, 1947 as the Gaffney Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Directors were: J.B. Hatcher, President – T.C. Drew, Vice President – J. Nathan Lipscomb, Treasurer. Other Board Members were William E. Bell, T.Y. Brown, R.W. Carr, J.H. Cathcart, Roy C. Cobb, T.C. Drew, A. J. Eastwood, J.C. Fort, J.B. Hatcher, J.N. Lipscomb, C.B. Poole and G.G. Watts, all of Cherokee County, S.C.