Chamber Chat – March 2025

The Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and Historic Jacksonville, Inc. proudly celebrate Women’s History Month in our historic landmark town by bringing our rich past into vibrant conversation with the present. This collaboration highlights the exceptional women who have shaped— and continue to shape—our unique community by weaving together stories of pioneering spirit with some of our exceptional present-day entrepreneurs.

The centerpiece of this month’s activities is the continuation of our enlightening “Then & Now” lecture series, a testament to the Chamber’s commitment to preserving history while promoting local businesses. Each Saturday afternoon at 2:30, community members can gather at historic locations along California Street to explore the intertwined stories of our past and present.

The series kicks off March 1 at The Miners’ Bazaar (235 E California Street), where owner Rosie Taylor shares the fascinating history of the Crooked House. The following weekend, on March 8, Historic Jacksonville’s Carolyn Kingsnorth teams up with Britt’s Abby McKee at the US Hotel (125 E California Street) to reveal the building’s storied past and hear about the plans for its future.

Mid-month brings us to Rebel Heart Books (157 E California Street) on March 15, where owner Eileen Bobek delves into the history of the Martin & Zigler Blacksmith Shop. On March 22, Carolyn Kingsnorth returns to share the compelling story of Jane McCully at the McCully House Pub & Lounge (240 E California Street). The series concludes March 29 at The Pot Rack (140 E California Street), where owner Erika Bishop explores the legacy of the Sach’s Brothers Dry Goods Building.

What makes this year’s celebration particularly meaningful is the active participation of Jacksonville’s exceptional women-owned businesses and leaders. Through guest posts and special promotions, these entrepreneurs share their own stories of persistence and success, drawing inspiration from the trailblazers who came before them.

This collaborative celebration between the Chamber and Historic Jacksonville is designed to foster connection, encouraging residents to explore the intersections between our town’s historical female figures and contemporary women leaders. The hope is to create engaging spaces for meaningful dialogue about women’s evolving roles in our community and the opportunities that lie ahead.

As we honor both the historical achievements and present-day contributions of Jacksonville’s remarkable women, this celebration serves as a reminder of how far we’ve come and the future before us. The Chamber’s partnership with Historic Jacksonville reflects our shared commitment to preserving and sharing these important stories while supporting the next generation of female leaders.

Through this comprehensive celebration of Women’s History Month, Jacksonville continues to strengthen its legacy as a community that recognizes, values, and actively supports women’s contributions—both historical and present-day. We invite all community members to participate in these enriching events and join us in celebrating the extraordinary women who make Jacksonville truly special.

To RSVP for these events, contact the venues directly. To participate with your own events and stories on the Chamber social media and website, please contact
belita@jacksonvilleoregon.org.

Featured image: Rosie Taylor & April McPherson at The Miners’ Bazaar.