The Chamber of Commerce was established in 1957, shortly after Fort Leonard Wood became a permanent installation, which led to rapid growth in the area and its economy. During that time, Waynesville was the main business community while Saint Robert was primarily a rural town known as Gospel Ridge until 1941. Gospel Ridge became a name of the past when Saint Robert was incorporated in 1959. The once cohesive and unified Waynesville-St. Robert Chambers split into two due to philosophical differences from 1972 to 1978 and established their own city organizations.
In October of 1973, the Waynesville Chamber of Commerce received its certificate for non-profit status, and after several years of separation, a merger was in the works. The two Chambers hoped that the merger would help solidify relations between the two cities, combine resources for future development, utilize the talents of both cities more effectively, and promote community autonomy.
In March 1978, the merger was voted on and overwhelmingly approved, with the merger being completed in May of that year. The Waynesville-St. Robert Area Chamber of Commerce took a significant step in unifying the formerly separate chambers by hiring an Executive Director to oversee operations for the consolidated organization. In January of 1979, the Waynesville-St. Robert Chamber of Commerce received a certificate of incorporation.
Over the years, the Chamber has remained steadfast in its commitment to serving its members, cultivating leadership, and driving economic vitality. The Waynesville-St. Robert Chamber was named Chamber of the Year in 2013 by the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, recognizing its exceptional leadership, innovation, and service to the community. In 2025, the Chamber’s Board of Directors reaffirmed this commitment by redefining the organization’s mission, vision, and core values, and introducing a refreshed brand and logo designed to position the Waynesville-St. Robert Area Chamber of Commerce for lasting success. We are proud of our collective efforts and look forward to continuing to build a stronger community for years to come.