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History of the Chamber
This brief history is a synopsis of
a more complete history found in
"Two Centuries at Mission San Jose 1797 - 1997" by Phil Holmes.
The Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce
was organized in 1909. Early Chamber projects included establishing a
free library, rehabilitating the fire department, securing 20 street
lights for the town, sponsoring clean-up days, and working to restore
the mission.
Businessmen, property owners, growers,
ranchers and housewives re-established the Chamber in 1950 to face the
issues of development, traffic, and home rule. Incorporation of a
new town in Washington Township was one of the first issues discussed by
the Chamber. They joined the Irvington Chamber in a protest against the
temporary housing and labor camp being constructed on the road to
Irvington in 1952. They studied zoning plans for the county, opposed
plans for a nearby garbage dump, held a welcome for newcomers, and
operated a community bulletin board.
The Chamber formed a planning committee
"to determine the unique and historical aspects of Mission San Jose and
to prepare a plan for the Mission area." Everyone agreed that the
mission "creates a focal point of interest beyond the community level
and establishes a desirable theme for horticulture and architecture to
be followed." They envisioned an arts and crafts type of tourist and
commercial area that would enhance the historic structures and preserve
the unique qualities of the area.
In the 1950's, the Chamber worked with the
city to preserve the olive trees on Olive Avenue, sponsored the Mission
Youth Center, and fought to retain the Mission San Jose postmark. They
discussed street lights and underground utilities and planned
advertising brochures, welcome signs and building plaques. Throughout
the years, they labored to preserve the environment of Mission Blvd.
Through the years, Chamber members
wrestled with problems of increasing traffic, studied patterns,
requested more buses, pedestrian crosswalks, speed zones and a traffic
light in front of the mission. In the 1980's, the Chamber fought to
retain the Historical Architecture Review Board and supported Mission
Days and the restoration of the mission. members staffed the refreshment
booth at Ohlone College productions to raise money and sponsored Santa
Claus for the community.
The Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce
led the way in making plans for the bicentennial celebration, and a
formal study group made recommendations to the Fremont City Council. The
group has actively pursued implementation of goals outlined in that
report, including Mission Blvd. improvements, and design guidelines for
new development.
As in the past, the Chamber members work
to "preserve, enhance and perpetuate" the mission and the charming
village which surrounds it. Members continue to actively sponsor and
promote events in the local area which bring together community members
and business owners, celebrating our local history and accomplishments,
including the Olive Festival, the Spring Celebration, the Christmas Tree
Lighting and other events. |
