William H. “Bill” Caldwell

“Mr. Bill” Caldwell, as he was known to family and friends, has a legacy of service and leadership in agriculture in White County. He is known for helping in the development of the town of Rose Bud, both economically and politically. A pioneer in the poultry and cattle industry in the county, Caldwell served on the town council for seven years, prior to serving as mayor of Rose Bud for five years. In 1948, he established a Grade “A” dairy which he ran until 1957 when he converted the operation to brood cows. Caldwell later purchased equipment to grind and mix feed for his cattle and that of his neighbors. This was the foundation of Caldwell Farm Supply and Caldwell Milling Co., which would grow to employ more than 140 people at seven stores throughout Arkansas. Under his leadership the company received numerous Presidents’ Awards from Purina for leading the company in sales. Beginning in the late 1970s and continuing for 12 years, Caldwell Milling was the sales leader in the U.S. for Vigortone Mineral. His son Henry was a co-owner of the farm supply and milling company and, along with his grandson Billy, they oversee the business today. Additionally, his Sidon Mountain Brangus Ranch won many championships in national livestock shows and was a Top 10 producer nationally in registrations for the Brangus breed. In 1966 Caldwell ventured into the commercial egg business with the formation of Caldwell & Son Eggs. Over the years there were more than 50 growers in the county who produced eggs for “Mr. Bill.” This was the foundation of what today is known as Caldwell Food, and integrated Grade “A” egg production and processing company with clients throughout the south. “Mr. Bill” Caldwell was a man who never forgot the people who worked for him or the community he lived in. He was a strong supporter of 4-H and FFA and was a highly respected leader in Rose Bud and White County.