January 2016 signals the start of Chamber’s 120th anniversary year. In order to commemorate 120 years since incorporation, Chamber tasked research assistant Adam Dean, hired through the UEA’s Undergraduate and Graduate Internship Programme, with the vast assignment of unearthing highlights from 120 years of detailed history taken from a huge range of archives. Starting his work in 2015 Adam spent nearly 3 months tirelessly reading through over a century’s worth of meeting notes, press cuttings and articles to discover the changing face of the Chamber and Norfolk business.
The central factor in this work has been exploring the ‘then and now’ aspect of the last 120 years and the legacy Chamber, and its Norfolk business members, have created. The research has uncovered Chamber’s rich history reinforced by the invariable affiliation to the county’s distinguished business leaders. Notable figures, including Jeremiah James Colman, proved key in the formative years of the Chamber.
To commemorate 120 years Chamber have launched a dedicated area on our website: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/120th to share the research undertaken. This is sectioned into key areas including; Past President’s from 1896 to present; an area looking at the key industry sectors for our region; and a chance to find out more about the upcoming events happening throughout the celebratory anniversary year.
In addition, Chamber is proud to launch their Chamber Community Fund as part of an ongoing campaign encouraging the growth and advancement of Norfolk’s young people. Chamber will match pound-for-pound every donation made up to £10,000 with the goal being to meet this target within 12 months. Grants will be made to suitable community projects towards the end of 2016. The purpose of this fund is to create opportunities for the younger generation and help them flourish in employment.
Caroline Williams, Chief Executive of Chamber, comments:
“We are thrilled to have hit such a milestone. In order to gain a better understanding of the Chamber we have been exploring the history of the organisation. In doing so we have unearthed a greater knowledge and understanding of Chamber and the people who have been part of the network in the past.
“However, as usual, the Chamber is looking forward. With the help and support of our members we are looking, as a key focus for 2016, to create opportunities for Norfolk’s younger generation and help them discover their full potential”
The Norfolk Chamber is keen to hear of any of their members is celebrating a long-standing anniversary or if you have archives, images that could support the 120th anniversary celebration. To submit your story or any images, or if you have any questions, please email: [email protected]
