History of WACCO

On August 20, 1982, an organizational meeting was held at the home of Ruth Jaster in Racine, Wisconsin. Present were Bob Schaap, Ruth Jaster, Taylor Mackey, Lee and Joni Agnew and Frank Schulte. The purpose of this meeting was to establish an organization uniting the camera clubs of Southeast Wisconsin. It would encourage and promote photography through the sharing of knowledge and experience. The name proposed was Wisconsin Council of Camera Clubs. 

WACCO The Early Years

In the beginning, like all fledgling groups, WACCO had its share of problems while establishing itself.  Forming new opportunities helped participants get to know each other. The process of attracting members, conducting competitions, planning outings and programs allowed the team to resolve their differences.  Often disagreements and conflict arose until participants learned to trust each other’s judgments and to work effectively as a team. Formulating By-Laws and Operational Procedures for officers and committees, writing the rules for competitions, deciding on awards was difficult.  Through struggle and growth, successful developments occurred. WACCO became a positive performing photography organization. 

• The first interclub competition was planned for November of 1983 at the Holiday Inn, Waukesha. It was hosted by Image Makers Camera Club.

• In October of 1987 WACCO undertook hosting the PSA Regional Convention, a quote from President Steve Haynes "Well, folks - we did it! And we did ourselves proud. The convention was a huge success."

• On Novmeber 3, 1984 all the member clubs ratified the bylaws.

• On April 20th, 1985 the bylaws were amended and the competition rules were being created. It was decided to hold an annual Fall competition the first Saturday in November.

• August 17th 1985 the Operational Procedures for Competition were approved.

• 1984 Club Roster
  reative Photographers Guild, Image Makers Camera Club, Kenosha Camera Club, Menomonee Falls Camera Club, Milwaukee Camera Club, Photo Pictorialists of Milwaukee, Racine Camera Club, Schlitz Audubon Nature Center Camera Club, Western Camera Club

• January 17, 1989 WACCO was Incorporated.

Officers of WACCO