The Chamber here in La Habra literally had it roots in the farming industry back in the early 1900's. "The Farmer's Club was active in promoting the agriculture of La Habra Valley and was a predecessor to the local Chamber of Commerce according to the book "La Habra The Pass Through the Hills" written by Esther Cramer in 2003.

La Habra Blvd looking east at Cypress St 1920's

The name La Habra directly translated - The harbor or haven, a safe place!

In 1914 with the appointment of F. R. Aldrich to represent La Habra at the Orange County Associated Chamber of Commerce. This was first official representation in that body. By this action, the La Habra Farmers Club became the local Chamber of Commerce, and the older name was dropped in favor of the title, "Chamber of Commerce of La Habra."

In 1916 a Merchants and Manufactures Association was formed in La Habra, with Dr. Frank Coltrin as its president and Henry Price as Secretary. This was a separate body from the Chamber at first, as membership in the new organization was limited to businessmen in town while the Chamber of Commerce included all the men and women interested in promoting La Habra and its products.

Interest lagged in the Chamber of Commerce as the Merchants took the lead in promoting further development of the town. Since some men belonged to both groups, it was voted to dissolve the older organization in 1917, and all of the Farmer's Club/Chamber of Commerce property was turned over to the Woman's Club. The Farmers' needs were handled by the newly organized Farm Bureau after this date.

The name Merchants' and Manufactures. which had been gained from a county-wide organization, seemed inappropriate for a small town such as La Habra, with little manufacturing, so the name Chamber of Commerce was assumed by this body of businessmen in 1920. Again all interested persons were invited to join.

It could be said the Chamber of Commerce was started in 1914 and through a few bumpy years it took firm hold in 1920.

According to state records the Chamber incorporated in 1940 as a non-profit organization.

In 1980 the Chamber found its permanent home through the efforts of local business and community leaders and the assistance of the City of La Habra where it is today. The Chamber founded in 1914 and organized as a 501-C6 Corp in 1940