Acknowledgements

Every community has its story, and the community that is Staplcotn is no different. its story is one of vision, hope, frustration, setbacks and the ultimate triumph of the American spirit of cooperation that has been the hallmark of agricultural cooperatives across our nation.

If Staplcotn's story has a recurring theme, it is the example of great tasks being accomplished when a community has competent leaders and a willing and able board of directors to provide the long vision during good times and the steadying hand during times of trial.

As with most undertakings of this type, the author is indebted to generous people who have searched their files and their memories to help tell the story. They include Mack Alford, Bob Dilatush, Woods Eastland, Hank Hodges, LeRoy Percy, Billy Percy, Walter Rayner, Jerry Sayre, Aven Whittington and Mary Jayne Garrard Whittington. Also offering valuable assistance were Barbara Belk, Ella Cannon, Marce Dilly, Lana Draper, Lane Eastland, Gus Johnson, Gene Stansel, Sandy Welsh and Virginia White.

I have enjoyed sharing with them the reconstruction of Staplcotn's story. The final product was greatly enriched by their participation. Any errors are mine alone.

Photo Credits