Greater Lynn Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Lynn Chamber of Commerce is a member-driven business organization working to strengthen the economy of Southern Essex County. It supports members through educational initiatives and business resources, legislative advocacy, and marketing and networking opportunities. Its membership spans larger employers and smaller family-owned businesses, much like the original chamber, whose members ranged from big manufacturers to small family firms more than a century ago.

The organization traces its roots to 1912, when it began as the Lynn Chamber of Commerce, the idea of businessman Ralph S. Bauer, who also served as the 38th mayor of Lynn. Bauer helped form the Lynn Board of Trade, organized the Essex County Associated Boards of Trade, championed the White Way lighting system downtown and was responsible for creating Lynn Shore Drive. Issues such as transportation, taxes, permitting and signage concerned members then, much as they do today.

What to Know

• The chamber was renamed the Lynn Area Chamber of Commerce in the mid-1960s before taking its current name.
• Bauer served as president of the original chamber for several years.
• Bauer led the fight against increased fares on the Bay State railway.
• It is listed as a resource by the Downtown Lynn Cultural District.