Harrison’s Grocery

In 1866, John Kimble Harrison came to Osceola to visit his friend Jim Reed who had established a pioneer grocery business on the east side of the square after the closing of the Civil War. The two men had been soldiers together in the Civil War.

Harrison liked the country and decided to stay, entering into a partnership with Reed. In 1878, Harrison purchased Reed’s interest, becoming sole owner, and Reed returned to New London.

Harrison added boots and shoes to his stock two years later. In the early 1920s, he closed out the shoe stock and dealt wholly in groceries after that.

The store was under the active management of Harrison. Through his stalwart business methods, the store was maintained as one of the best leaders in its line in Osceola. He supplied the highest quality grocery from fresh stocks at lowest prices coupled with prompt, courteous service.

Declining health caused him to be less active, but he retained the management of the business, being at the store nearly every day.

Advancing years necessitated Mr. Harrison relinquish his management. In 1927, a deal was completed with M.E. Hogan, selling Hogan the business and the management passed to him.

The grocery had been in operation under the name Harrison’s Grocery at the same location for 60 years.

While Harrison relinquished all interests in the store, he maintained a chair at his old desk where he attended to his private affairs and another at the stove where he continued to greet his old friends until his death in 1929 at the age of 86.

Harrison’s Grocery was located at 137 S. Main St. Businesses at that location later were a barbershop, Gold Star Market started in 1940 by Ruth and Emil (Rindy) Rinderspacher, The Twins Shop, and today, offices on the north part of Clarke County State Bank.