Charles Mitchell grew up in Bentonville, attending the local schools, At nineteen years of age, he went to St. Louis to finish his trade as a marble cutter. He entered the employment of Bradbury Marble Company in that city and remained with that firm until 1903 when he returned to Bentonville and initiated his independent efforts in the marble business. From small beginnings in what was the old Eagle Hotel (where the Massey now sits). he gradually extended his trade and scope the operation, buying out all competitors and business rivals in the city. He then stood supreme in the marble and tiling business in this place. He later moved his business to 207 S. Main St..
His plant was equipped with compressed air and all the pneumatic tools required to make it thoroughly modern. Also added was a sand blasting machine, only the second one to be installed in the state. It eliminated the tedious hand drilling of the past. The cost of the machine was $1000, which was a lot of money at that time. Most of their granite was brought in from Elberton, GA. Three men were in the field as salesmen in Oklahoma, southwest Missouri, and northwest Arkansas, and the business turned towards Bentonville made Mitchell Company’s premises a busy place. Mr. Mitchell was recognized as a man of extraordinary executive ability and unquestioned integrity. He built up his admirable success through fair and honest methods and his record would bear the searchlight of the fullest investigation. After 30 years in business. it was sold to a Mr. Foster who expanded the building to 160 feet long and added a show room.
When Mr. Mitchell worked out of the Eagle Hotel, he would display his monuments along the street that is now known as Central Ave.
Ad from an old 1919 Bentonville City directory. Note the last line that says they will come pick you up at your home by car and return you home whether you purchase or not. That's service!