Hermann, MO

A rich history & bright future!

Where We’ve Been

Founded in 1837 by German immigrants, Hermann has a storied past rooted in viticulture and winemaking. Known as the “Rhineland of America,” Hermann quickly became a hub for wine production, with its rolling hills and fertile soil providing the perfect conditions for vineyards. Hermann’s architectural landscape reflects its German heritage with beautifully preserved buildings, quaint streets, and traditional festivals drawing visitors from around the world. The annual Wurstfest, Oktoberfest, and Maifest are celebrated with great enthusiasm showcasing our community’s commitment to honoring its roots. In 1903 the first iteration of our current Chamber of Commerce was formed as the Board of Trade. Its purpose was to recruit a shoe manufacturing company to Hermann. In 1904, Peters Shoe Company began production and employed about 400 workers by 1923. Since 1903, the Hermann Area Chamber of Commerce (HACC) and its previous forms has led countless initiatives that supported our local businesses and have improved our community and the lives of our residents.

Where We Are

Our community is characterized by strong civic engagement and a high quality of life. Hermann offers excellent schools, its own critical access hospital, recreational facilities, and cultural amenities. Tourism continues to play a vital role, with our wineries, hospitality businesses, and historical sites attracting thousands of visitors each year. While our world has faced significant economic challenges, visitors to the Hermann Area have increased and the area has experienced a major increase in the number of short-term rental properties. In addition to tourism, the Hermann Area has seen growth in local businesses, artisans, and agri-tourism. The HACC and Regional Economic Development Initiative (REDI) championed the cause for joining the Greater Montgomery County Port Authority (GMCPA) and housing development. However, our community grapples with a dwindling population and non-existent housing for our workers signaling a need for strategic interventions to invigorate growth. This growth will ultimately protect our two greatest community assets – our schools and healthcare system.

Where We Are Going

The Hermann Area Chamber of Commerce proposes an expanded, bold strategy to drive quality economic growth. We believe Hermann and its surrounding communities are at a pivotal point for new opportunities, and we want to ensure success by developing resources to strengthen and diversify our economy. The mega site industrial development 15 minutes north of Hermann presents significant opportunities for economic growth, attracting families, and will provide employment opportunities for our residents. Furthermore, capitalizing on the potential benefits as a result of joining the GMCPA, those benefits may include but not limited to, economic development, infrastructure funding, and regional collaboration. For the HACC to institute this aggressive, effective program, private investment is required. Our mission is to help the Hermann Area thrive and grow by generating economic activity, supporting the expansion of our existing businesses, and supporting new business and resident recruitment. We need to increase the resources available to deliver increased economic development services and business support. We recognize that the City of Hermann will be conducting a comprehensive plan addressing its long-term responsibilities in the near future. We look forward to possible areas of collaboration where our goals might overlap. Our plan includes four primary focus areas over the next five years:

• WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT/HOUSING
• INFRASTRUCTURE/RIVERFRONT DEVELOPMENT
• LIFESTYLE/ENTERTAINMENT
• HERITAGE/CULTURAL PRESERVATION