Walla Walla Junior Chamber of Commerce Records

Collection

Identifier: WCMss-071

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The Walla Walla Junior Chamber of Commerce records houses newspaper clippings, photographs, award entry scrapbook portfolios, trophies, membership information, event and project materials, meeting notes, and chapter records for this organization also known as the “Jaycees.” Also included are photograph albums, scrapbooks, project and event materials, meeting notes, and chapter records for the “Jaycee Ja(y)nes,” a counterpart organization to the “Jaycees.” The records in this collection date from 1936 to 1986.

Dates

Creation: 1936-1986

Creator

Walla Walla Junior Chamber of Commerce (Organization)

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research.

Historical Note

Formed in 1936 as a “businessmen’s organization,” the Walla Walla Junior Chamber of Commerce, also known as the “Jaycees,” were not related to the local chamber. Instead, it’s mission was to give those between the ages of 21 and 39 tools for business development, management skills and training through involvement in community service. These community service projects could be things like events or contests. Fields of focus include, agriculture and conservation, public relations, sports activities, community health, traffic safety, youth welfare, fine arts, americanism, and christmas activities. The Jaycees formed as an organization exclusively for men. Women wishing to be involved joined the counterpart organization, the “Jaycee Ja(y)nes.” In 1984, following a Supreme Court ruling, both groups combined, as the Jaycees were forced to allow women membership. After 65 years of service, the Walla Walla Junior Chamber of Commerce closed in March 2001.

Extent

74.17 Linear Feet (8 record cartons, 14 flat boxes, 23 oversize scrapbooks)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

This collection houses award entry scrapbooks, membership records, project proposals and reports, and meeting notes of the Walla Walla Junior Chamber of Commerce, known as the “Jaycees” formed in 1936, and its counterpart organization, the “Jaycee Ja(y)nes.”