About
Small town. Big business. Since 1923.
For more than 100 years, the Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce has stood behind the shops, restaurants, and families that make Whiting and Robertsdale home.
The Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce, as a public catalyst, partner, and investor in the community, serves the citizens and merchants by encouraging, promoting, expanding, and enhancing the business area of Whiting-Robertsdale, Indiana. The Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce exists to create worthwhile, rewarding experiences for visitors and Chamber merchant members.
Our Story
119th Street has changed many times since the Chamber began. Our job hasn’t: bring people downtown, connect neighbors with local businesses, and help those businesses grow.
Today that means signature events like Pierogi Fest and Wickedly Whiting, plus Chamber traditions like the Installation Dinner, the Easter Parade, and Garage Mahal.
Who We Are
- An independent, not-for-profit 501(c)(6) business association
- Not a city department or government agency
- Guided by a volunteer Board of Directors and run by a small staff
- Funded by member dues, sponsorships, and events
- Every dollar stays focused on our local business community
Our History
More than a century of business on 119th Street, and a Chamber working to keep it thriving since 1923.
- 1889A city is born
Whiting is founded alongside the Standard Oil refinery, and the downtown business district starts to grow.
Offices of Standard Oil Company, circa 1910 - 1903Whiting becomes a city
Whiting is incorporated as a city, and 119th Street grows into a busy commercial district.
“Greetings From Whiting” postcard, 1914 - 1923The Chamber is founded
The Chamber of Commerce is founded to promote and support the businesses of Whiting and Robertsdale.
- 1945Officially not-for-profit
The IRS recognizes the Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce as a tax-exempt, not-for-profit business association.
Vogel’s Restaurant postcard, 1945 - 1994The first Pierogi Fest
The Chamber launches Pierogi Fest, a wacky celebration of food and heritage that grows into one of the Region’s biggest festivals.
Pierogi Fest - TodayStill working for 119th Street
Pierogi Fest, Wickedly Whiting, the Easter Parade, Garage Mahal, and the Installation Dinner bring the community together all year, and the Chamber keeps connecting customers with local businesses.
Downtown Whiting today
119th Street, Then & Now
Nearly a century apart, the same street is still the heart of Whiting’s business community.
What We Do
Four ways the Chamber works for members and the community.
Marketing, social media, The WRite Stuff, and the WJOB radio show.
Quarterly luncheons, ribbon cuttings, and partnerships with Whiting and Hammond.
Festivals and events that bring thousands of visitors downtown.
Student interns, free business resources, and support for new businesses.
Historic postcard images: Steve Shook, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.