Bastrop Chamber Celebrates Centennial Year
The Bastrop Chamber of Commerce will celebrate its centennial anniversary with a Centennial Gala at the Bastrop Convention Center on Jan. 14. This is an amazing milestone for the Bastrop Chamber, as it is the third oldest Chamber of Commerce in Central Texas and is consistently ranked in the Top 10 of the Austin Business Journal’s Book of Lists.
The State of Texas granted Articles of Incorporation to the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce on Jan. 14, 1922, and early members provided a vision for the town by adopting the motto “Bigger Better Bastrop.” The early Chamber was instrumental in bringing Camp Swift to Bastrop County and with resolve, faced challenges of a small town and later, a rapidly growing one.
Over the past 100 years, the Chamber has addressed important needs on behalf of the community regarding tourism, downtown revitalization, and economic development and, for the last forty years, has bestowed awards on the community’s most worthy citizens and businesses at its annual meeting.
The Centennial Gala, a soldout event with over 400 guests, will highlight the last 10 decades of service to the Bastrop community, including actor portrayals of several historical business figures such as J.V. Ash, Ruby Griesenbeck, Judi Hoover, Cecil Long, and Dr. Neil Gurwitz.
Throughout the evening, guests will have the opportunity to purchase a book entitled A Chamber Centennial History and a limited-edition gold coin commemorating the 100th anniversary, as well as visit the past decades in photo displays.
“We’re excited to celebrate our Centennial Anniversary at such a pivotal time in Bastrop County, and we’re especially thrilled to have Governor Greg Abbott and Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott joining the festivities,” said Becki Womble, President and CEO of the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce. First Lady Abbott will be the keynote speaker, followed by a recorded message from Governor Abbott, both of whom will be a highlight of this significant event.
Wrapping up the evening will be the 2021 Awards Presentations for large and small Business of the Year, Emerging Business of the Year, Non-Profit of the Year, as well as Man and Woman of the Year. All guests will receive a Commemorative Centennial gift box.
The mission of the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce is to improve business prosperity and, thereby, the quality of life in Bastrop County, through leadership, advocacy, and collaboration. The Bastrop Chamber of Commerce is located at 927 Main St. in downtown Bastrop and is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday. They can also be contacted at (512) 303-0558 or at info@bastropchamber.com