Gardena Valley Chamber of Commerce Collection, 1888-2004; undated, bulk 1960-1990

Printable guide [HTML]

Summary

Creators:
Gardena Valley Chamber of Commerce
Abstract:
The collection consists of scrapbooks, documents, publications, photographs, videotapes, and other material related to the history and activities of the Gardena, California, Chamber of Commerce.
Extent:
13 boxes and 4.5 Linear Feet
Language:
English .
Preferred citation:

For information about citing archival material, see the Citations for Archival Material guide, or consult the appropriate style manual.

Background

Scope and content:

The Gardena Valley Chamber of Commerce Collection (1888-2004; undated) contains 13 boxes and 4.5 linear feet of material that documents the evolution of the business community in Gardena. It consists of scrapbooks, minutes, official records, publications, photographs, and awards documenting the organization's history and activities. Chronological scrapbooks include newspaper clippings, photographs, correspondence, and memorabilia. Publications in the collection include commemorative newspapers, a local business directory, and editions of the chamber's official publication, "Gardena Valley Business Life". Documents include board minutes, organizational charts, annual reports, correspondence, and economic and demographic profiles of the City of Gardena. An extensive collection of photographs documents Chamber of Commerce officers and members, including official photographs of the organization's presidents and board members. Also documented are organizational activities, local business openings, and local and area sites. Local, state, and national dignitaries pictured in the collection include Los Angeles mayor Tom Bradley, Los Angeles County supervisor Kenneth Hahn, California Governor Pete Wilson, United States Attorney General Edwin Meese, United States Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger, and President George H. W. Bush. Individual albums include images of the 1971 Gardena Expo, the Gold Cup motorcycle races held at local race promoter J. C. Agajanian's Ascot Park race track, and the construction of the Hustler Casino. A small collection of VHS videocassettes containing episodes of a Chamber of Commerce television show and other locally broadcast events is also included.

Biographical / historical:

The Gardena Valley Chamber of Commerce was incorporated on April 29, 1933, three years after the creation of the City of Gardena, California. The Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization whose volunteer membership includes businesses, civic leaders, and government officials from the Gardena Valley area, which is located in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County.

In its early years, the chamber's main concerns were supporting civic improvements, such as paved streets, street lighting, a sewer system, and gas and electricity. Its primary function historically has been to further the interests of local businesses through promotion, the sponsorship of community events, and engagement on legislative issues.

Acquisition information:
Donated by the Gardena Valley Chamber of Commerce in 2015.
Processing information:

This collection was processed by Robert Bush in March of 2016.

Rules or conventions:
Describing Archives: A Content Standard

Access and use

Restrictions:

There are no access restrictions on this collection, except where notated at file-level.

Terms of access:

All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the Director of Archives and Special Collections. Permission for publication is given on behalf of Special Collections as the owner of the physical materials and not intended to include or imply permission of the copyright holder, which must also be obtained.

Preferred citation:

For information about citing archival material, see the Citations for Archival Material guide, or consult the appropriate style manual.

Location of this collection:
University Library, 5th Flr (5039)
1000 E. Victoria Street
Carson, CA 90747, US
Contact:
(310) 243-3895
archives@csudh.edu
Website