History of WACCO

On August 20, 1982, an organizational meeting was held at the home of Ruth Jaster in Racine, Wisconsin. Bob Schaap, Ruth Jaster, Taylor Mackey, Lee and Joni Agnew, and Frank Schulte were present.
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 the 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, and planning outings and programs allowed the team to resolve their differences. 
Often, disagreements and conflicts arose until participants learned to trust each other’s judgments and to work effectively as a team. Formulating Bylaws and Operational Procedures for officers and committees, writing the rules for competitions, and deciding on awards were difficult.  Through struggle and growth, successful developments occurred. WACCO became a positive performing photography organization. 

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

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

• On November 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 on the first Saturday in November.

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

• 1984 Club Roster
  Creative 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.