Georgia Chamber of Commerce Honored with Historical Marker in Macon

The Georgia Chamber of Commerce and the Georgia Historical Society today unveiled a new historical marker outside the Macon City Auditorium, commemorating the origins of the Georgia Chamber and its enduring impact on the state’s economic landscape. The marker recognizes that the Chamber’s first Board of Directors meeting was held nearby at Macon’s Hotel Dempsey on September 16, 1913, with the organization officially incorporating two years later in 1915.

This unveiling is part of the Georgia Historical Society’s Georgia Business History Initiative, which celebrates organizations that have played a vital role in shaping Georgia’s economic narrative.

Chris Clark, President & CEO of the Georgia Chamber, highlighted the state’s transformation: “Generations of leaders helped transform Georgia from an agricultural hub into a global economic powerhouse. Agriculture remains our top industry, and today we’re also the number one state to do business, home to brands like Coca-Cola, YKK, and Blue Bird, as well as thousands of small businesses and innovators shaping what’s next.” He emphasized the Chamber’s century-long commitment to free enterprise and partnerships, which he termed “the Georgia Way,” and expressed hope that the marker would inspire future generations.

Walter M. “Sonny” Deriso, Jr., Chairman Emeritus of both the Georgia Chamber and the Georgia Historical Society Board of Curators, and a 2025 Georgia Trustee, underscored the Chamber’s sustained influence: “For almost 115 years, the Georgia Chamber has been the voice of business in Georgia and throughout the nation. The remarkable history of this organization and its impact on the economic, cultural and social development of Georgia is being told through the Georgia Business History Initiative of the Georgia Historical Society and the dedication of an historical marker to commemorate the founding of the Georgia Chamber.”

Dr. W. Todd Groce, President and CEO of the Georgia Historical Society, also acknowledged the Chamber’s role in driving progress: “For over 100 years, the Georgia Chamber has led the way in creating the right climate for business to thrive in our state. It has been, and continues to be, essential to Georgia’s economic development and the wellbeing of all Georgians. Sharing the century-old story of this amazing organization and the pivotal role it has played in helping us reach this point will pave the way for the victories of tomorrow.”

Jessica Walden, President and CEO of the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce, reflected on the local and statewide significance: “We are honored to join the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and the Georgia Historical Society in unveiling this historical marker in the heart of Georgia. This marker celebrates the rich history of the Georgia Chamber and highlights the enduring impact of the business community’s efforts to foster economic growth and development across the state.” She noted the importance of the first meeting’s site, reminding attendees of the vision and dedication that has driven their mission, contributing to Georgia’s “unprecedented eleven-year streak as the Number One State To Do Business.”

The full text of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce Historical Marker reads:

“In 1911, over 2,500 Georgia leaders gathered in Barnesville, at what is now Gordon College, to address statewide economic prosperity. This meeting led to the establishment of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, later incorporated in 1915. The Chamber met at the Macon City Auditorium in 1915 to discuss the Georgia Motion Picture Show, highlighting the state’s resources. An advocate of transformative initiatives, the Chamber lobbied for a state Department of Transportation and published Georgia’s first economic development materials. The Georgia Chamber’s Red Carpet Tour (est. 1959) and annual Georgia Quail Hunt (est. 1988) enhanced the state’s business appeal and attracted investors. One of the largest in the nation, with over 180 local and binational chambers, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce is the only chamber to win the Chamber of the Year award from two organizations.

Erected by the Georgia Historical Society and the Georgia Chamber of Commerce.”