During the process of office clean-up and renovations, the Chamber Team found this document in the Archives. ​Written by Robert N. Funderburk in September of 1982, it is a complete history of the first 25 years of the GCWC Chamber of Commerce. We hope you will find the historical aspects interesting.

Notable moments in Greater CWC Chamber History:

1957: Formal organizational meeting was held December 11, 1957 at which time By-Laws were adopted and officers elected. Mr. William Trotti is elected as the first President of the newly organized West Columbia-Cayce Chamber of Commerce.

1958: The new Chamber office moves to leased office space on Knox Abbott Dr at a rental cost of $74.50 a month.

1963: A cooperative effort to promote the recreational activities in the area is created between West Columbia, Cayce, Springdale, South Congaree and Pine Ridge.

1965: The Chamber appointed a committee to be known as the Lexington County Hospital committee to see if a hospital was needed in the area and to keep residents up to date on developments. In 1971, Lexington County Hospital opened its doors.

1967: The Chamber joins a study and Board of Directors endorse consideration for park along the riverbank as a “major drawing card for tourism”. In 1978, the Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens opened to the public.

1971: Due to the expanded area of Chamber coverage, a motion was made, seconded and unanimously carried that the name of our organization be changed to The Greater West Columbia-Cayce Chamber of Commerce effected December 1, 1971.

1982: Elizabeth S. Keisler, the first woman President, took office in the 25th year of the Chamber.