Service lauded

PEA RIDGE — The time was 1936. It was the end of the Great Depression and World War II had not yet begun.

Pea Ridge was a small farming community, newly incorporated as a town.

Hugh Huntington Webb Sr., who had lived on his family’s homestead two and a half miles west of town, moved into town with his family and opened Webb’s Electric Hatchery and Feed.

In 1940, Fred McKinney went to work for Mr. Webb. In 1944, he married Webb’s daughter, Mabel.

In 1946, a partnership was formed between Webb Sr., his brother, Wilson C. Webb and Hugh’s two sons-in-law, Fred McKinney and Russell Walker.

Over the next seven and a half decades, the business has remained a stalwart piece of Pea Ridge.

Walking into the narrow building, time seems to stand still.

Hens in a cage on the wall cackle and lay eggs. Stacks of feed emitting a sweet, molasses scent line the walls. Seed is for sale in drawers outside the cubicle housing the office.

Inside the office, Fred sits behind the counter conducting business, visiting with customers.

Fred, his family and the business with their dedication to duty and community was honoredFriday, Sept. 30, as family members, community members and civic leaders gathered in the feed store to applaud Fred and Mabel McKinney and their contribution to the community.

Mabel fought back the tears as State Senator Cecile Bledsoe, Mayor Jackie Crabtree and Kathryn Gough, a representative for U.S. Senator John Boozman read proclamations lauding them for their service.

Crabtree read a letter from Gov. Mike Beebe which stated, in part:

“... Webb’s has continually added to the growth and prosperity of the region and proven itself a valued and contributing member of the local business economy. It was extremely influential, especially in the1940s, in greatly expanding the local broiler industry...

“In an increasinglycompetitive and complex marketplace, Webb’s Feed and Seed Company hasproven its ability to serve the needs of its customers and to earn the trust of itsclients for three-quarters of a century. On behalf of the State of Arkansas, best wishes for continued success.”

“Thank you,” both McKinneys said, obviously honored and humbled by the display of gratitude and respect from the community.

Sen. Bledsoe read a commendation from both herself and State Representative Donna Hutchinson.

Ms. Gough read a commendation from Sen. Boozman.

In addition to operating the business, a chicken and cattle operation, McKinney has served on the School Board, as fire chief, as city recorder, as mayor and both have served their church, Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Church, in various capacities.