The Origins of Wharton Feed and Supply

Wharton's feed store was originally started by Jim C. Locke in 1953.  It was known as the Jim C. Locke Company.  The building on the square where Mr. Locke started his business is currently occupied by the Wharton Journal Spectator.

The feed store moved to its current location, built by Roten in the 1950's, at 1105 North Fulton in 1962.  The store's name was changed to Wharton Feed and Supply at that time.  Frank Wendel managed the store until 1970 when he and his wife, Helen, purchased the business.  During the Wendel's ownership there was a beauty parlor located in the building.

Jimmy Martin and his partners, Doc Vineyard and Glen Tank White purchased the building from  Mr. Roten, and the business from Frank and Helen Wendel in 1978.

Timmy Barker purchased Wharton Feed and Supply in 1993.  In 1994 there was a fire that destroyed the opposite end of the building where the Feed Store is housed but did not affect Wharton Feed and Supply.  On May 26, 1999 Wharton Feed and Supply was nearly destroyed by fire.  Timmy, Ellen, Johnny and Richard operated the store from a temporary building during the reconstruction of the original store.

During the last month the store has been rebuilt, refurbished and restocked.  We are having a Grand Re-opening of Wharton Feed & Supply on August 28th.  We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the workers, customers and community members that have supported us during this difficult time.