The Hanford Insider’s latest episode dives into an engaging conversation with the Lacey Milling family, shedding light on their long-standing legacy and the integral role they have played in the history of Hanford. The episode begins with host Rob Bentley expressing his excitement about the interview that many community members have eagerly awaited for over a year. The Lacey Milling family, known for their flour production and community contributions, discusses the firm’s inception dating back to 1887—predating the city’s incorporation in 1891. The episode richly unfolds with the history that Horatio G. Lacey and his sons brought to the town, not only through the flourishing milling operation but also by pioneering electrical power in Hanford, which served as a significant factor in the town’s expansion and development.
Listeners are taken on a journey through time as Tim Lacey narrates the generational history that has shaped the milling family, illustrating the hardships they faced, including two world wars and the Great Depression. This commitment to perseverance is presented as a core theme, emphasizing the family business’s evolution over generations, despite the obstacles thrown their way. Each family member has evocative stories about the personal touch that family gatherings, holiday parties, and various social events brought to the mill.
The discourse shifts from the nostalgia of personal anecdotes to an examination of how Lacey Milling adapted to the evolving agricultural landscape. The episode poignantly recounts their strategic pivot toward dairy feed production in 1961 while highlighting the importance of community relationships built over many years. The conversation culminates in discussing the challenges that eventually led to the company’s closure in 2023, unexpected factors like drought impact, and the decline in wheat farming locally, posing questions about the future of the site.
Listeners also gain a fascinating insight into selected fun facts, such as the mill’s appearances in film and music videos, painting a vivid picture of its cultural significance. This narrative contributes to a sense of shared history and community pride, compelling individuals to reflect on the local histories that have influenced their lives.
As the episode wraps up, Rob highlights active community discussions about preserving the memory of Lacey Milling, ensuring that future generations understand its once-thriving presence in Hanford. Their reflections are not merely histories of a business but stories of community resilience, innovation, and heartfelt reminiscence—a tapestry of life woven through flour, family, and the fabric of a small town.
