Chariton Iowa Chamber of Commerce Circa 2003 -2012

 

This was the official website for the Chariton Iowa Chamber of Commerce.
Content is from the site's 2003-2012 archived pages.

The current website for the Chariton Iowa Chamber of Commerce is found at http://www.charitonareachambermainstreet.com/ where you will find all the latest news.

Chariton Iowa Chamber of Commerce
Chariton, Iowa Chamber and Development
104 North Grand
Chariton, IA 50049
Phone (641) 774-4059

Chariton Chamber & Development 
Charitable Foundation

Board of Directors
Jill Kerns, Chair
Dennis Bisgard, Vice-Chair
Adam Bahr, Secretary
Randy Westman, Treasurer

Members
Christopher Watkins
Betty Pepping
Kris Patrick
Alyse Hunter
Shantel Dow


The Chariton Chamber and Development Corp.  is an organization dedicated to supporting and developing our community.

Its purpose shall be improvement of our quality of life by the advancement of industrial, retail, services, agriculture, tourism and community betterment climates; the development of a community identity; and the stimulation of positive public sentiment to these ends.

We will facilitate and maintain growth of our community by creating a future vision that responds to our community's needs and desires.   
 

 


The Chariton Chamber and Development Charitable Foundation was organized in 1992 for charitable, educational, literary and scientific purposes and provides an avenue for charitable giving for area projects. The business and affairs of the Foundation are conducted by a nine-member Board of Directors.  The sole member of the Corporation is the Board of Directors of the Chariton Chamber and Development Corp.

The Ken and Atha Crist/Rotary Memorial Community Service Scholarship was established to offer financial assistance to graduating seniors of Lucas County who have shown a genuine concern and interest in their community, school and/or church.  Ken and Atha Crist worked closely with the youth of Lucas County, always personifying positive leadership and the virtues of volunteer community service.

Two scholarships are awarded annually in the amount of $1,000 each to graduating seniors of Chariton or Russell High School.    Past recipients include   Sherrie Barber (1992); Jason Beebout (1993); Jason Swarthout (1994); Brian Moore (1995); Kara Fristad (1996); Megan Swanson (1997); Brian Anstey (1998); Ryan Miller and Aron Morrow (1999): Issac Hirschy and Allison Kuball (2000);  Andrea White and Katie Kitterman (2001);  Zachary Baughman and Adam Curran (2002); Douglas Bear and Ashlynn Hunter (2003); and Cassandra Morrow and Cole Bisgard (2004); Amy Hayes (2005); Dan Brown (2005); Anna Anderson (2006); Zachary Holmes (2006); with John Douglas being an alternate (2006); Ben Mosbach (2007); Tiffany Chandler (2007); Anna Bortz and Avery Fuhs (2008); with alternate Emily Wilker (2008). Ailey Hunter and Ashley Wright (2009); Jessica Lundquist and Amanda Snider (2010): Tacy Jeans and Dalton Storm (2011).

The Glen L. Mitchell Scholarship was established in 2005 by the late Glen L. Mitchell in memory of his grandparents, Clinton and Agnes Ambelang Mitchell; his father, Glen L. Mitchell; and his uncle, Richard Mitchell. Two scholarships are offered, each in the amount of one thousand dollars, for a graduate of Chariton High School who plans to further his/her education in animal husbandry, agronomy, or other agriculture or farm-related pursuits. 2011 $1000 scholarships were awarded to Carolina Covington and Logan Chandler.  2010 $750 scholarships awarded to Kristy DeVore, Heather Sanders and Emily McGee.  2009 $1000. scholarship awarded to Kelsey Etter; 2008 $1000. scholarships were awarded to Bradley Evans; Anna Bortz; and 2008 $500.scholarships were awarded to Trenton Jeanes and Emma Offenburger; Janine Comstock (2007); Corey DeVore(2006); Travis Goering (2005).

The Mary Sandy Scholarship was established in 2005 by Dr. Bill and Pam Sandy, Brock and Ashton of Holdrege, Nebraska in honor of his mother's 80th birthday, "to honor her contributions to the education of our  family and the members of the surrounding community." Mary graduated from Chariton High School and  attended Chariton Junior College during its last year in existence and went on to a 35-year teaching career (including 29 years at Russell Community School. One scholarship, in the amount of one thousand  dollars, will be awarded to a student who plans to enroll in a course of study that will lead to a career as a teacher, from the Chariton or Russell  High School.   2011 $1000 scholarship awarded Jenna Beatty;    Tara Wilson;  (2005); Cameron Willis (2006); Amber McRoberts (2007); Tianna Goddard (2008); Tara Wilson (2009); Mackensie Moore(2010);

The Lyle and Donna Nickelson Fine Arts Scholarship was established to provide financial assistance to graduating seniors of Chariton or Russell High School who participated in fine arts programs during their high school years. The scholarship was established by Mrs. Donna Nickelson in 2008 in memory of her husband, Lyle Nickelson. One scholarship, in the amount of five hundred dollars will be awarded each year. The recipient may pursue any course of study at any accredited college or university. The scholarship for 2011 $500 scholarship awarded to Meghan McElroy;  Jordan Crabtree (2008); Allison Kelley (2009); Jared Ritenour (2010).

The Dorothy Disney Miller Scholarship was established in 2008 through a bequest from the estate of the late Dorothy Disney Miller of Chariton.  Dorothy was a 35 year employee of Hy-Vee, Inc.  This scholarship offers financial assistance to a graduate of Chariton or Russell High School who rank in the top one-half of their classes.  Scholarship in the amount of three thousand dollars and renewable for up to four years upon demonstration of satisfactory progress toward a degree. This is also available to past graduates currently enrolled full-time in college.  2011 scholarship was awarded to Carolina Covington.  Emily Wilker (2008); Amber Kearney (2009) Scott Morrett and Jordan Crabtree (2010).

The generosity of the Vredenburg Foundation has provided summer band concerts from the Community Bandstand for the past several years.  The concert series enhances Chariton's cultural offerings by a dedicated band director and residents of all ages. CleanItSupply, a nation-wide internet commerce enterprise focused on cleaning supplies and equipment donated products to help maintain the Bandstand and the adjacent facilities. They also provided custodial products and equipment to upkeep the restrooms on the public grounds.

The Coons Foundation's generous donation has made it possible for second story windows in the Chamber Office to be replaced.  They are historically correct, replicating the originals.

The many ways to give include gifts of cash (one-time, annual or pledge basis), honor or memorial (a loving way to remember a family member or friend), personal property or securities, special requests through your will or life insurance; or special funds to be designated toward a restricted project of your choosing.

All contributions are tax-deductible under the criteria established in the IRS Code 501©3.

 

 

 Trivia
        Chariton was named after a French Indian trader who located a trading post at the spot where this river, then unnamed, flowed into the Missouri River, and to this stream he gave his own name.

Shortly after the Sac and Fox Indians had gone, a band of Mormons, on their way west from Nauvoo, Illinois, to Salt Lake City, Utah, settle for the winter just south of Chariton.  They built temporary homes where the Chariton River had a sharp pyramid-shaped angle.  They named the place "Chariton Point".  They built log shanties with dirt floors and thatched roofs, planted crops and lived there for almost two years.  The Daughters of the American Revolution placed a large rock on the south side of the Chariton square to commemorate this event.

  
     
 

 
Lucas County was named after Robert Lucas, the first territorial governor of Iowa.

There is the grave of an old Cherokee Chief - Chief John Rinehart and his family buried on the south side of the road just inside the Chariton Cemetery.  He died on January 2, 1881.
 

  
   

 


 
 


Lucas County holds the state record for the largest Flathead Catfish caught weighting in at 81 pounds and measuring 52 inches in length.  Caught at Lake Ellis in June 1958 by Joe Baze.

Rainwater falling on the east side of the Lucas County Courthouse in Chariton eventually flows into the Mississippi River, while the rainwater falling on the west side of the Courthouse flows into the Missouri River.

The first light bulb in the State of Iowa was turned on in Lucas; Thomas Edison had invented it the year before.  It had been exhibited at the Philadelphia Exposition and bought by the mine officials for Whitebreast No. 1.  The mine was located east of Lucas in the town of Cleveland.
 
The clock in the Lucas County Courthouse was obtained from the Columbian Worlds Fair in Chicago.  S.H. Mallory of Chariton purchased the clock and donated it to the new courthouse for its dedication in 1894.  The clock had been in the agricultural building at the World's Fair in 1893.
 

  		 In 1881, there were 96 school houses in Lucas County, costing nearly $70,000.

John L. Lewis, Lucas County's native son, worked in the "Big Hill" mine at the west edge of Lucas. 


 
   

There were five coal mines operating in Lucas County in 1923.  The pay roll ranged from $60,000 to $80,000 in gold for a two week period.

Buffalo Bill came to Chariton with his wild west circus.  He had an Indian with him who was known to be a troublemaker.  Bill warned him not to get into trouble here or Bill would shoot him.  He did and HE DID!

 

 

 Business/Professional Division
 

 
 

Board
Darcy Fitzgerald, President
Laura Farrell, Vice-President
Gary Pepping, Secretary/Treasurer

   Meetings are held at 7:00 A.M. on the second Thursday of each month in the Chamber Office.  All Chamber business members, both retail and professional representatives, are invited to attend.
 		  
 
Sponsorship of Norman Moon Memorial LIghted Float Parade held during Holiday Open House on the Friday after Thanksgiving each year.  The winner's name is placed on a plaque in the Chamber office.

Sponsors the annual Haunted Forest at Red Haw State Park.  This event grows each year due to a very dedicated and energetic Haunted Forest Committee.

Coordinates and sponsors the January and July Crazy Days.  The July event features free hot dogs and watermelons.

Promotes the beautification of Lucas County through the annual sale of Red Bud Trees in mid-April each year.

Encourages and plants annual flowers in large containers in front of each business to provide a friendly and inviting experience for shoppers and visitors.

Coordinates the summer band concert series which is funded by a generous grant from the Vredenburg Foundation. 
 

 

 

Chariton Community Betterment

The purpose of Chariton Community Betterment shall be to improve the quality of life by promoting a positive attitude within our community; by encouraging the coordination of community efforts; and by creating and maintaining a healthy business, social and physical environment. Chariton Community Betterment is a division of the Chariton Chamber and Development Corp..  It functions under this organization but maintains a separate budget and rules governing its activities.

Chariton Community Betterment meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 12:00 Noon in the offices of the Chariton Chamber and Development Corp.

Coordination of the Annual Community Clean-Up Day held during early May each year.

Sponsors the Annual Community- Wide Garage Sale held on the first Saturday in June of each year.

Sponsorship of the annual Miss Merry Christmas pageant held during Holiday Open House on the Friday evening after Thanksgiving each year on the Chariton Town Square.
Coordination of LAVITSEF activities held on the third Saturday in October each year.  This event features a children Halloween costume contest and children's parade.
During mid-December each year, Community Betterment sponsors a Holiday Home Decorating Contest with prizes given to winners in various categories.

 

Quick Facts

    
   
   

 
Chariton is a community of 4573 residents, the county seat of Lucas County, and located in beautiful south central Iowa.  The 2000 U.S. Census indicated a population increase in population for Lucas County of 3.9 percent during the past 10 years.

You can find Chariton at the intersection of U.S. Highway 34 and Iowa Highway 14.  We are less than 30 minutes to Interstate 35 and less than 60 minutes to Iowas capital of Des Moines.  Both Kansas City and Omaha are a short three hours drive.

The Chariton Municipal Airport is located two miles west of Chariton on U.S. Highway 34 and features: 2800 foot paved north-south runway; 4000 foot paved east-west runway;  three instrument approaches;  runway end identification system and precision approach path indicators.  

The Burlington Northern and Santa Fe and Union Pacific railroad serve our community.  Chariton is located near the heart of an Amish community, which brings tourists to view the quieter side of life.   Chariton is attracting a growing number of people to Iowa and Lucas County to enjoy the rural experience.

    
     

 

 

 
People Quick Facts
 

Lucas County

 Iowa
  Population, 2001 estimate 9,470 2,923,179
  Population percent change, April1, 2000-July 1, 2001 0.5% -0.1%
  Population, 2000 9,422 2,926,324
  Population, percent change, 1990 to 2000 3.9% 5.4%
  Persons under 5 years old, percent, 2000 6.0% 6.4%
  Persons under 18 years old, percent, 2000 25.4% 25.1%
  Persons 65 years old and over, percent, 2000 19.3% 14.9%
  Female persons, percent, 2000 51.4% 50.9%
  White persons, percent, 2000 98.4% 93.9%
  Black or African American persons, percent, 2000 0.1% 2.1%
  American Indian and Alaska Native persons, percent, 2000 0.1% 0.3%
  Asian persons, percent, 2000 0.3% 1.3%
  Persons reporting some other race, percent, 2000 0.4% 1.3%
  Persons reporting two or more races, percent, 2000 0.6% 1.1%
  Persons of Hispanic or Latino origin, percent, 2000 0.9% 2.8%
  White persons, not of Hispanic/Latino origin, percent, 2000 98.0% 92.6%
  Living in same house in 1995 and 2000, pct age 5+, 2000 61.6% 56.9%
  Foreign born persons, percent, 2000 0.7% 3.1%
  Language other than English spoken at home, pct age 5+, 2000 4.5% 5.8%
  High school graduates, percent of persons age 25+, 2000 79.1% 86.1%
  Bachelor's degree or higher, pct of persons age 25+, 2000 11.1% 21.2%
  Persons with a disability, age 5+, 2000 1,699 446,665
  Mean travel time to work, workers age 16+ (minutes), 2000 25.6 18.5
  Housing units, 2000 4,239 1,232,511
  Homeownership rate, 2000 78.3% 72.3%
  Housing units in multi-unit structures, percent, 2000 12.5% 18.4%
  Median value of owner-occupied housing units, 2000 $50,900 $82,500
  Households, 2000 3,811 1,149,276
  Persons per household, 2000 2.42 2.46
  Median household money income, 1999 $30,876 $39,469
  Per capita money income, 1999 $15,341 $19,674
  Persons below poverty, percent, 1999 13.7% 9.1%
     
 
Business Quick Facts
 

Lucas County

 Iowa
  Private nonfarm establishments, 1999 214 81,213
  Private nonfarm employment, 1999 2,627 1,239,354
  Private nonfarm employment, percent change 1990-1999 2.4% 23.0%
  Nonemployer establishments, 1999 553 169,753
  Manufacturers shipments, 1997 ($1000) NA 62,413,687
  Retail sales, 1997 ($1000) 50,230 26,723,822
  Retail sales per capita, 1997 $5,514 $9,362
  Women-owned firms, percent of total, 1997 32.5% 25.3%
  Housing units authorized by building permits, 2000 1 12,500
  Federal funds and grants, 2001 ($1000) 58,289 17,401,265
  Local government employment - full-time equivalent, 1997 461 112,667
     
 
Geography Quick Facts
 

Lucas County

 Iowa
  Land area, 2000 (square miles) 431 55,869
  Persons per square mile, 2000 21.9 52.4
  Metropolitan Area None  
 

 
   

 

More Background On CharitonChamber.com

 

CharitonChamber.com represents the former home and digital identity of the Chamber of Commerce serving Chariton, Iowa. Over time, the organization expanded into what is now known as Chariton Area Chamber/Main Street, bringing together local business support, community revitalization programs, and historic preservation under a single, cohesive mission. This detailed guide explores the ownership, history, operations, cultural impact, goals, programs, and community significance of the organization behind CharitonChamber.com.

While the website itself has transitioned to newer platforms, the information and history connected to CharitonChamber.com continue to reflect the organization’s long-standing legacy in economic development, civic engagement, and downtown revitalization.

Ownership and Organizational Structure

Chariton Area Chamber/Main Street operates as a nonprofit community and economic development organization serving the city of Chariton and the broader Lucas County area. Its structure typically includes:

  • A governing board of business owners, civic leaders, and volunteers

  • Executive staff responsible for administration, event programming, and economic initiatives

  • Standing committees aligned with the Main Street model (Organization, Promotion, Economic Vitality, and Design)

  • Volunteers and partner organizations who support local events, planning, and community improvement projects

The organization historically included a charitable branch, the Chariton Chamber & Development Charitable Foundation, established in the early 1990s to support scholarships, civic projects, and community development initiatives.

As a nonprofit tied to economic development and historic preservation, the organization fits within both the Iowa Main Street network and the broader nationwide Main Street America model.

Location and Regional Context

Chariton Area Chamber/Main Street is headquartered in downtown Chariton, Iowa, on the historic courthouse square. Chariton is the county seat of Lucas County and lies in south-central Iowa, approximately:

  • 30 minutes from Interstate 35

  • Less than 1 hour from the Des Moines metropolitan area

  • Along U.S. Highway 34 and Iowa Highway 14

The organization’s strategic location in the center of the historic business district allows it to coordinate closely with shop owners, property owners, city government, and community supporters. The district itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting its architectural and cultural significance.

Mission, Goals, and Purpose

The modern Chariton Area Chamber/Main Street organization describes its mission as promoting economic vitality, cultural enrichment, and community engagement. Its goals include:

1. Strengthening the Local Economy

Supporting retail growth, service businesses, industrial development, and agriculture.
Offering resources for entrepreneurs, job seekers, and business retention.

2. Revitalizing Historic Downtown Chariton

Applying the Four-Point Main Street Approach:

  • Design: façade improvements, beautification, signage, and preservation

  • Organization: volunteer and stakeholder coordination

  • Promotion: events, branding, community festivals

  • Economic Vitality: encouraging investment and strengthening the business mix

3. Promoting Community Quality of Life

Developing cohesive community identity, improving amenities, and supporting family-friendly programming.

4. Encouraging Tourism and Visitor Experience

Highlighting historic assets, local recreation, cultural events, and small-town charm to draw visitors.

5. Building Strong Partnerships

Collaborating with local government, schools, nonprofits, and state programs such as Main Street Iowa.

The organization’s goals reflect a balanced approach—both economic and cultural—ensuring sustainability for future generations.

History of the Organization

Early Development and Community Foundation

Chariton’s Chamber of Commerce has roots that stretch back decades, reflecting a long tradition of local business collaboration. The charitable foundation associated with the chamber was organized in 1992, offering scholarships and funding community betterment.

The CharitonChamber.com Era (Early 2000s – Early 2010s)

During the rise of online communication, CharitonChamber.com served as the primary digital home of the organization. Archived versions of the site show:

  • A strong focus on community events such as town-wide garage sales, holiday parades, and seasonal contests

  • Scholarship listings for area high school graduates

  • Business directories and relocation information

  • Agricultural and industrial promotion reflective of Lucas County’s economic base

The website and organization emphasized the message “improving quality of life through advancement of industry, retail, services, agriculture, and tourism.”

Main Street Designation and Downtown Revitalization

In 2012, downtown Chariton was accepted as a Main Street Iowa Community, marking a major milestone. This designation brought professional guidance, grant opportunities, design resources, and a structured approach to revitalization.

In 2014, the Lucas County Courthouse Square Historic District achieved recognition on the National Register of Historic Places, sharpening the organization’s focus on historic preservation.

Strategic Planning and Modernization (2020–Present)

Recent planning efforts included:

  • Professional assessments of downtown market data

  • Consumer and business surveys

  • Updated branding and promotional strategies

  • Increased collaboration with city departments

The shift from CharitonChamber.com to updated web platforms corresponds with this modernization.

Community Events and Programs

Chariton Area Chamber/Main Street is known for hosting, managing, or supporting a wide range of community events, many of which were historically highlighted through CharitonChamber.com.

Annual and Seasonal Events Include:

  • Farmers Markets on the square

  • Lunch on the Square performances

  • Town-wide garage sales

  • Holiday open houses and parades

  • Home decorating contests

  • Youth costume parades and family activities

  • Downtown clean-up days

  • Business appreciation events

  • Small Business Saturday promotions

These events foster community pride, attract visitors, and provide economic boosts to local retailers.

Business Resources and Membership Benefits

The organization provides numerous services to support local businesses, including:

Business Directory

Listings for retail, dining, services, nonprofit organizations, and industry within Chariton.

Chamber Bucks Program

A local currency initiative encouraging residents to shop with local businesses.

Workshops and Support Services

Business start-up resources, networking events, and local investment guidance.

Marketing and Promotion

Spotlight articles, social media features, event involvement, and visibility to visitors.

Community Partnerships

Connections with city officials, Main Street Iowa, regional tourism groups, and state economic development tools.

These efforts help stabilize and grow the local economy while reinforcing a strong merchant community.

Tourism, Attractions, and Regional Identity

Chariton’s identity is deeply tied to:

  • Beautiful rolling hills of southern Iowa

  • The historic courthouse square

  • Local specialty shops, including candy makers

  • Redbud trees, which bloom dramatically each spring

  • Outdoor attractions, including Red Haw State Park, Lake Ellis, and Lucas County’s multi-use trails

The chamber has long used the slogan “the simple life in south-central Iowa” to appeal to visitors looking for small-town charm, nature, and history.

Guides originally listed on CharitonChamber.com highlighted dining, lodging, museums, recreation, and unique shopping experiences—content still promoted today through the organization’s newer online presence.

Educational and Charitable Impact

The charitable foundation associated with the organization has historically funded:

  • Multiple annual scholarships for graduating high school seniors

  • Fine arts, community service, and memorial awards

  • Youth programs and leadership development

This reflects a core belief that supporting local youth strengthens the long-term vitality of Chariton.

Cultural and Social Significance

CharitonChamber.com and the organization behind it play a crucial cultural role:

Community Identity

By promoting historic preservation, the chamber helps maintain the character of Chariton’s downtown—a vital symbol of local heritage.

Inclusive Events and Activities

Programs are designed to bring together families, seniors, youth, and visitors, fostering intergenerational cohesion.

Local Entrepreneurship

Chariton’s small businesses exemplify the values of craft, hospitality, and tradition, and the chamber ensures these businesses remain visible and supported.

Economic Stability and Growth

Through business recruitment, tourism promotion, and downtown development, the organization directly influences Chariton’s economic future.

Reputation and Community Feedback

Community sentiment toward the chamber is generally positive, based on:

  • Longstanding involvement in civic initiatives

  • Its leadership role in securing historic district status

  • Consistent support of businesses and events

  • Strong visibility across social and community channels

The organization’s reputation stems from decades of reliable service and strong alignment with community needs.

Awards and Distinctions

Key recognitions associated with the organization include:

  • Main Street Iowa Community designation (2012)

  • National Register of Historic Places listing for the downtown district (2014)

  • Annual local award programs for home decor, business excellence, or seasonal participation

These distinctions highlight Chariton’s commitment to preservation and vitality.

Future Outlook

The future of the organization reflects opportunity, growth, and ongoing revitalization. Key directions include:

  • Continued enhancement of the historic district

  • Expanded tourism marketing

  • Increased business workshops and resources

  • Stronger digital presence and online tools

  • Encouragement of entrepreneurship and downtown housing options

  • Strengthening partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and regional agencies

With its strategic planning and community-first philosophy, Chariton Area Chamber/Main Street is positioned to serve as a central force in the town’s next chapter.

 

CharitonChamber.com represents a significant chapter in the digital and organizational history of Chariton’s primary business and community development organization. Today the mission continues through Chariton Area Chamber/Main Street, a nonprofit devoted to economic vitality, historic preservation, community engagement, and tourism development.

Through leadership, events, business support, and cultural stewardship, the organization plays a crucial role in shaping Chariton’s identity, resilience, and vibrancy. Its work strengthens businesses, enriches residents, and welcomes visitors—ensuring that Chariton’s historic heart thrives well into the future.

CharitonChamber.com