There is hereby created an Historical and Recreational Commission for Anderson, Oconee and Pickens Counties to be known as the Pendleton District Historical and Recreational Commission. The Commission shall be composed of nine members, three each from Anderson, Oconee and Pickens Counties, who shall be appointed by the Governor on recommendation by a majority of the county legislative delegation of the respective counties. The members of the Commission shall be appointed for terms of six years and until their successors are appointed and qualify, except that of those first appointed, one member from each county shall serve for two years, one member from each county shall serve four years, and one member from each county shall serve for six years. In case of any vacancy, the appointment to fill the vacancy shall be made in the same manner as provided for the original appointment. The commissioners, upon being appointed, shall meet and elect a chairman and secretary-treasurer. The members of the Commission shall serve without compensation. They may employ a director and a secretary who shall perform such duties as the Commission may direct. Compensation paid the director and secretary shall be fixed by the Commission.