June T. made a request for me to find out the businesses that have operated here in Ridgeway in the past. Using the May 25, June 8, and Sept. 28, 1949, issues of the “Mercury-Herald”, I pulled out some of the names of business that purchased advertisements in the paper. The Shepard Locker sold groceries and bought eggs and cream while Shepard Equipment Co advertised new and used appliances. Richardson Garage offered speedy service with a smile, and you could find quality hardware at Ridgeway Lumber Co. You would find helpful and courteous service at the Farmer’s Bank of Ridgeway and pick up paint, wallpaper, and fly spray at Stoner Drug Store after enjoying a soda at their fountain.
The Midwest Theatre showed movies on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Farmer’s Oil Company not only sold oil, gas, and grease, but also farming equipment and supplies. You might purchase grain, seed and fertilizer from Bennett Grain & Seed Company or have your car serviced at Andrick Garage. After working hard on the farm, you could pick up some fishing equipment from Sobotka Hardware and groceries from Scott Grocery or Gillespie Grocery. Then, you might go for a sandwich or plate lunch with a cold drink at Poush Café. J. A. Linthacum could repair your clock or watch or help you buy home insurance. Missouri Public Service’s “Reddy Kilowatt is on the job night and day to serve his customers” and of course, you would read all about it in the Mercury-Herald.
