About the South Platte United Chamber of Commerce 

South Platte United Chambers of Commerce (SPUCC) has made monumental contributions to the welfare of the respective area. In the beginning there was drought, flood, and hardship, but there was also hope. Hope for better weather, an end to the depression, irrigation, and one hundred and one other things that could bring prosperity to Nebraska and particularly to that area of the state located south of the South Platte River.

Action came on April 4, 1934, in Holdrege, NE, when a secretary recorded the following: "In reference to an invitation extended by the Hastings, Minden, and Holdrege Chambers of Commerce, 140 representatives of community clubs, commercial and service clubs, and chambers of commerce representing 24 towns met at the Hotel Dale." The meeting was called at the suggestion of R.O. Canaday of Hastings who asked that the communities south of the Platte River in Western and Central Nebraska to unite and form an association. Canaday told those attending that, "Nebraska is the finest state in the Union. This is the finest region in the state and here are the finest people on earth. But the region has not been given the consideration in many matters it should have. Our organization can make possible a more efficient representation of the region's needs to the legislative bodies and public officials." Today the SPUCC region consists of 22 counties some which do not include the entire county. The map on the right shows the region which is represented. The northern border lies on the south side of the Platte River.

The group, before adjourning, agreed to the following preamble: "The purpose of this organization is to further the economic and social welfare of the state of Nebraska with particular reference to the welfare of the territory from which it draws its membership. The name of the association shall be the South Platte United Chambers of Commerce (SPUCC)."