TEXARKANA MAGAZINE
Established 1898 Celebrating 125 Years
Established 1905 Celebrating 119 Years
Founded in 1898 as Ralph Brothers Laundry, the Abernathy Company originated in Texarkana to serve the community and surrounding areas. Embodying a spirit of innovation that would define the company, the original owners began producing their own detergent to cut costs. The high quality of these products soon attracted wider attention, leading to requests for purchase and sparking the birth of a manufacturing enterprise. In the 1970s, the company, then known as RB Chemical, expanded its range to include industrial cleaning products, towels, tissues, janitorial supplies, and contract cleaning services. This diversification marked a significant evolution from its laundry roots. By the early 1990s, it had transformed into the Abernathy Company, the name it carries today. The current incarnation of Abernathy Company has evolved into a multifaceted conglomerate. It serves a vast array of businesses and institutions both domestically and internationally, encompassing manufacturing, retail, wholesale, logistics, and warehousing sectors. This growth and success are attributed to the company’s unwavering commitment to customer responsiveness, timely delivery, consistent quality, and an enduring adherence to values of heritage, integrity, and service.
Since its inception in 1905, The Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce has been a partnership of businesses, organizations, and professionals working together to build a robust economy and enhance the community’s quality of life. Initially formed as the Texarkana Board of Trade by a small group of businessmen, it aimed to spur economic growth and prosperity in Texarkana. Early influencers mentioned in the minutes of the Board included William Buchanan, Fred Offenhauser, W. R. Grim, E. W. Frost, and Louis Heilbron, who each played pivotal roles in shaping its direction. In 1912, the Texarkana Board of Trade gained notable recognition by becoming one of the first 100 Charter Members of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, joining other pioneering cities like Houston, Texas, and Pine Bluff, Arkansas. As time passed, it became clear the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce was more than just two communities. It is a regional hub for commercial, medical, and educational opportunities for two states and multiple counties. It soon moved to a marketing position, defining its name as Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce to reflect its broader purpose and scope of activities. Today, the Chamber continues to act as a unifying force, seamlessly integrating two states into a single, cohesive community. It remains committed to being a central conduit for shared progress, embodying a singular vision and message for the region it serves.
Established 1903 Celebrating 121 Years
Bodcaw Bank, a cornerstone of Stamps, Arkansas, and one of its oldest businesses, opened its doors in 1903, aligning with the boom of a thriving mill town that included Bodcaw Lumber Company. At the time, this sawmill was one of the largest sawmills for yellow pine in the world. However, the landscape changed dramatically post-World War I, with the depletion of South Arkansas’ virgin forests and the subsequent closure of the mills. In 1975, marking a significant milestone, Bodcaw Bank moved into a new, larger building adjacent to its original location. Continuing its legacy, the bank remains deeply rooted in the communities it serves. It takes pride in its local ownership and management, emphasizing a commitment to community-oriented banking practices.
Established 1906 Celebrating 118 Years
In 1906, T.S. Grayson and Robert Warnock, Sr. had the vision to establish a community-focused bank in the heart of Magnolia, Arkansas, with the very simple goal of helping their friends and neighbors find financial solutions for a lifetime. Out of that vision, Farmers Bank & Trust Company was chartered. Over a century later, the bank has flourished, spanning five generations and over $2.8 billion in assets. Its reach has extended into communities across Arkansas, Texas, and Oklahoma. The vision may have grown, but that simple goal remains the same...it’s the heart of who we are and how we serve.
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COMMUNITY & CULTURE
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