02-05-2025
On this day in 2024: 'old York meets New York' during trade mission
On this day in 2024, the York Press reported that a delegation from York had arrived in New York on a four-day mission to boost trade and friendship ties with the US city.
The delegation included the Lord Mayor of York, the Archbishop of York, representatives from the University of York and York St John, and business leaders.
They were set to take part in a series of business networking events and discussions, including a mini 'Great Yorkshire Show' (to promote York and North Yorkshire) at the British Consulate General.
The visit, billed as 'old York meets New York,' was to culminate in a special service at Saint Thomas Church on Fifth Avenue, where a friendship 'ledger stone,' designed and carved at York Minster, was to be unveiled.
This ledger stone was to mark a century of friendship between the cities: New York presented York with a memorial tablet, alongside a message from the then US President, in 1924.
Sarah Czarnecki, president of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said: "Trade missions like this were once commonplace but they have become expensive.
"Each business is paying for their own flights and accommodation and we have designed an itinerary to ensure business connections are made.
"This is a forward-thinking move by the Chamber to provide a valuable opportunity for those looking to explore new markets."
The trade mission was organised by the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, with the Minster leading on the ceremonial aspects of the visit.
