Needmore Community Celebrates John ‘Bud’ Milton Hall

News Summary

The Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum has launched an exhibit honoring John ‘Bud’ Milton Hall, a notable figure in the Needmore community, showcasing his entrepreneurial journey and community service. The exhibit highlights the Hall family’s impact on local culture and education, emphasizing Hall’s legacy through his cafes and family involvement in the business.

Needmore Community Shines a Light on John “Bud” Milton Hall in New Exhibit

In the heart of Starkville, a fantastic story of community spirit and inspiration is unfolding. The Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum has recently unveiled an exhibit that celebrates the legacy of John “Bud” Milton Hall, a beloved figure in the Needmore community. Despite only having an elementary school education, his entrepreneurial journey is a testament to determination and hard work that continues to inspire today.

From a Car to a Café

John Hall’s entrepreneurial adventure began in an unexpected place – his car. He started selling barbecue sandwiches on the streets, and his love for good food and service soon led him to open his first café, The Town’s Talk Cafe. This beloved local spot thrived for nearly 20 years on Lampkin Street. After its lease ended, Hall didn’t let the setback stop him. Instead, he relocated and rebranded it as The Cozy Corner Cafe, situated at the intersection of Washington Street and Jefferson Street, welcoming the community with open arms.

A Family Affair

The café wasn’t just a business; it was a family affair. Hall’s five children grew up in his bustling kitchens, where they learned the ropes of business at an early age. From greeting customers to cooking, serving, and cleaning, they were immersed in the daily operations of the café, developing a strong work ethic that would serve them well in life.

A Legacy of Education and Service

But Hall’s contribution to the community reached far beyond his cafés. He established a janitorial service that went on to secure contracts, including a significant one with the Colvard Student Union at Mississippi State University after its opening in 1964. Hall understood the value of education and insisted all his employees pursue their schooling while working for him, laying a foundation for their future successes.

Maggie Hall: The Heart of the Community

John was not alone in his efforts. His wife, Maggie T. Hall, was a culinary gem in her own right. Her renowned cooking ensured that no one in their community went hungry, showcasing a “heart of a missionary” spirit. Together, they built a legacy of care and support, making a remarkable impact on the lives of those around them.

Honoring the Hall Family’s Impact

The Hall family’s remarkable story is now beautifully highlighted in the museum’s “Faces and Places of Needmore” exhibit, which focuses on the rich history of one of Starkville’s earliest Black neighborhoods. It’s heartwarming to see a family’s decades-long contributions celebrated and remembered in such a significant way.

A Bittersweet Recognition

Visitors Welcome!

The exhibit features a rich collection of historical newspapers, photographs, and captivating stories from the Needmore community. Museum officials have expressed their hopes to keep the exhibit open through March and possibly make it a permanent fixture honoring the legacy of John “Bud” Milton Hall and his family.

For those looking to be inspired, a visit to the Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum will not only offer a peek into the rich tapestry of the Needmore community but also remind everyone of the amazing power of family, hard work, and love that can change lives and uplift an entire community.

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Additional Resources

• C Dispatch: Needmore Community
• WCBI: Starkville Opens New Community Center
• Because of Them We Can: Mississippi Man Creates Museum
• WCBI: Local Icon Honored Through Museum Exhibit
• Wikipedia: Community Centers in the United States