chamber history

[According to Charles Rector, Sr.]

When Charles Rector Sr. graduated in 1907 he started working for Andrew B. Hanna, the local mortician. In an effort to corral the forces of the community for its improvements, Andrew Hanna, Jesse Hughes, Charles Huffman, William Stewart, Albert Vaughn, Ralph Confer, Charles Rector Sr, and Grant Scott organized as a club called the "Pizhrinktum Club."

The group grew so rapidly that, after the second meeting, it was necessary to change the meeting place from the funeral parlor to the "Big 4 Station." The name was changed at that time to the "9 o"clock Tea Club" because they met at 9:00 P.m.

The name was changed in 1909 to "Greencastle Chamber of Commerce", and then in 2020 to the “Putnam County Chamber of Commerce”. As the front door to the community it welcomes newcomers, visitors, and all others making inquiry of the community. Together, the Chamber does what no one person can do by themself.

Today the Chamber serves as a voice, a business partner, a resource, and an advocate. We promote and support local businesses, foster community, and work to improve the quality of life in Putnam County.

Photo Credit: Vincent Aguirre

Join Us Today

Joining the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce comes with a wealth of benefits for businesses and individuals alike. Since 1907, the Chamber has been serving Putnam County by promoting, supporting, and retaining business in the county. As a member, you’ll be able to take advantage of the Chamber’s resources and perks to help your business thrive.

Some of the benefits of joining the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce include:

Connections: The Chamber serves as an entity that develops, educates, and retains a well-educated, diverse workforce. Your membership allows us all to stay connected, build relationships, and make a difference.
Referrals: As a member, you’ll get free ongoing referrals from numerous customer inquiries received each month at the Chamber office; only Chamber members are referred.
Reputation: Consumers that know a business is a Chamber member are 68% more likely to think positively of their local reputation.
Return on Investment: Over 90% of Putnam County Chamber members reinvest in their Chamber every year demonstrating the return on investment.

In addition to these benefits, the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce also organizes events and provides resources to help its members succeed. By joining the Chamber, you’ll be able to take advantage of all that it has to offer.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow your business and connect with others in the Putnam County community. Join the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce today!