March 13, 1954 was the date of the 1st National Chinchilla Show.  It was sponsored by the National Chinchilla Breeders of America (NCBA) and held in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  The NCBA system of sanctioned shows was designed to focus attention upon the fur quality of superior breeding stock while at the same time affording a peak occasion for Chinchilla breeders to convene from all sections of the country for a free exchange of ideas and personal good will.  The year before, the Branches had started local shows.

At that time the Farmers Chinchilla Cooperative of America, Inc. (FCCA) was the marketing organization for the ranchers.  1954 was also the time of the first offering of ranch raised Chinchilla pelts to the fur market.  In 1952 a contest had been conducted with the membership at which time the trade name for FCCA was chosen to market Chinchilla pelts in the future. “Empress Chinchilla” was chosen becoming synonymous with Quality Chinchilla from that point on.

In 1964 NCBA and FCCA merged their organizations and in 1965 changed the name to Empress Chinchilla Breeders Cooperative, Inc. (ECBC)

Click a link in the list to the right to see more information about that trophy or award, and a complete list of winners of all National Shows since 1954 for that trophy or award.  It is remarkable to see the history of our organization.