1866
Photo Contributor ~ Bill Huson, who said: “Certainly remember those buses, I grew up on Brant Ave across the road from the PUC “Bus Barn” but I don’t know any driver named Huson. I think the caption is intended for this picture. The driver is my grandfather.”
Establishment of the Brantford Board of Trade
The Brantford Board of Trade was established in 1866 under the leadership of Ignatius Cockshut to improve navigation on the Grand River and rail systems. One of the first concerns of the new organization was ensuring adequate transportation systems for local business.
Among the initial orders of business was determining the suitability of the Grand River for navigation by large vessels. The board members also quickly realized the importance of railways in stimulating the local economy.
1871
National Representation
In 1871, Ignatius Cockshutt attended the first meeting of the Dominion Board of Trade to emphasize the Brantford Board’s concerns about freight charges and rail service.
1877
Brantford Becomes a City
On May 31, 1877, Brantford was designated as a city. With a population of approximately 10,000, the city was already widely recognized as one of Ontario’s important industrial centers.
Photo Contributor ~ Bruce Marshman, who said: “Brantford brought a salute from a band of 20 Indian musicians from the Six Nations and a parade of over 100 automobiles down the main street – 1949”
1905
Campaign
Six year campaign to bring the Grand Trunk Railway line to creation
1917
403
Advocated for the initiation of the 400 series of highways through southern Ontario, specifically the original 401 and 403.
1919
Name Change
In 1919, the Brantford Board of Trade was renamed the Brantford Chamber of Commerce.
1926
Canadian Chamber of Commerce
One of the founding members of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
Late 1900s
Industrial Growth
Photo Contributor ~ Stacey N Dave Upton, who said “This is my grand father company. The building was on Jarvis ST just behind B.C.I. School”
By the end of the 19th century, the strength of the community was closely linked with a growing demand for the modern agricultural implements it was producing. Massey Harris Co., the city’s largest employer, controlled more than half of Canada’s agricultural implementation trade, while the Cockshutt Plow Co. was known around the world for its technical innovation.
Post-World War I
Photo Contributor ~ Jamie McGregor, who said: “Brantford lost Image.”
Economic Diversification
Following the first World War, the board realized that the cyclical nature of farm machinery was a major concern and Brantford could no longer rely on a single industrial activity as the basis for its economy. Much of the board’s energy throughout the 1950s was directed towards promoting the Brantford-Brant County area and supporting various campaigns designed to diversify the industrial base
1960s
Government Oversight
In the late 1960s, the board began to strengthen its role as a watchdog of government activity. As governments expanded and increased spending, the board closely monitored government programs that would make a major impact on the community, including urban renewal, the development of regional government, and the city’s ward system.
Photo Contributor ~ David Lindeman, who said: “Brantford YMCA undated postcard.” Springfield College Archives and Special Collections
1962-1996
403
The Chamber started advocacy for 403 Brantford-Ancaster, they initiated the feasibility study and designed a route. They opened the “Biggest Street Party Ever” hosted by the Chamber.
1971
Education
Advocated for/to the post- secondary commission for college campus, with Labor Council’s Committee on Civic Affairs, investigated the case for regional government.
1980s
Economic Challenges
Photo Contributor ~ Robert Doucet, who said: “This was line 3. The guy in the center of the picture I believe is Frank Powell – Definitely a Character.”
In the 1980s, the community suffered as some of the city’s major employers, such as Massey Ferguson and White Farm, closed their doors. The chamber drew on more than a century of experience to continue its leadership role during these challenging days to help lead the economic recovery.
Present Day
Continuing the Legacy
Today, more than 150 years after the birth of the organization, linking economic prosperity with quality of life remains the guiding principle of this organization that has played an essential role in the success of our community.
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Celebrating 100 years of Championing Canadian Business
Representatives of the 100 original members of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in 2019 in St. John, New Brunswick
| We’re proud to celebrate 100 years of connecting and championing Canadian businesses. Since 1925, we have been the voice of business in Canada — advocating for growth, competitiveness, and prosperity across every region and sector. As we celebrate this centennial moment, we extend our gratitude to our members, partners, and communities who have shaped our story. |
Chamber CEO David Prang accepting a honorary medal as a founding member on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce Brantford-Brant in 2025 from Canadian Chamber of Commerce President Candace Laing, at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s 100th Anniversary celebration.
