On Summerside’s journey from a shipbuilding center and fox-farming hot spot, to the vibrant city it is today, it has always been the entrepreneurial spirit of it’s residents that has guided Summerside on it’s path to success.
This spirit is visible in a very tangible way in a recently discovered historical record of the economic activity of the town, found in amongst the records of the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce. This book, which records the organizing of the Chamber (then called the ‘Summerside Board of Trade’), dates back to January 24, 1900 and contains some very notable names, such as Robert Holman, J.E. Lefurgy and Neil McQuarrie.
Documenting the activities of local business people, this fascinating record, written in impeccable hand-writing, is a reminder of all the hard work and ingenuity that the business community has invested in Summerside throughout the years. From partnerships with local government, to arranging for the export of furs to other markets, this historic book records not just the decisions that shaped Summerside, but the thoughts of the business people who made them.
As an important artifact in the history of the city, the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce is coordinating with the MacNaught History Center and Archives of the City of Summerside in order to ensure that the information preserved in the document is passed on to future generations.
“It’s an invaluable window through time that allows us to gain insight into the reasoning behind some of the decisions which shaped our city” says Blake Doyle, Chamber President. “As you read through, it becomes apparent that these decisions were not always cut and dried, but often debated and contested, and victories hard won. We are reminded of the great courage, creativity and cooperation required for entrepreneurs to succeed, regardless of the time period they are working in.”
This find has inspired the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce to hold an event to celebrate the the entrepreneurial spirit of their members throughout the years. The GSCC will be hosting a Throwback DJ Dance Party, being held on Thursday Sept. 29 from 9pm-1am at the Sunset Room in Summerside. This 80’s/90’s themed dance will be an opportunity for the community to join in celebration of all the hardworking business people who have contributed to Summerside becoming the thriving city it is today. Tickets are $20 (with a discount available for Chamber Members), and are available for purchase on the GSCC website (summersidechamber.com).
As a non-profit organization today, the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce represents and promotes the needs of the local business community, with the goal of enhancing economic development, and ensuring the continued prosperity of our community for years to come.
