History

Fifteen local businessmen incorporated the Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce on December 18, 1882, as the "Board of Trade". Bradford’s own hero and economic starter, Lewis Emery, was the first president. The purpose as stated in the original charter was to protect, foster, and develop the commercial, manufacturing and business interests of the City of Bradford by joint and concerted action. In 1954 the corporation name was changed to the Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce.