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Wlaf1450‘We could be one of the oldest, continuous running businesses around’- George Hackler
JELLICO, TN (WLAF)- George Hackler grew up in Jellico and so did his parents, grandparents and great grandparents. “I’ve been blessed to have grown up and continue to live with that small town experience,” said Hackler, the owner of Jellico Monument.
Through the years, Jellico Monument has changed hands a few times; after all, it’s a 123 year old business. However, Hackler has been a stable force over 30 of those 123 years. “I’m proud to be integrated into the community and to contribute to the community, because I believe in local business,” said Hackler.
Hackler shares the history of Jellico Monument saying the Lamb family founded the business 1902, and it was located about where the Subway, former Hardee’s is. “That may not even have within the city limits in those days,” said Hackler.
The Lamb family ran Jellico Monument until the 1930s bringing in a partner, Horace Leach. Leach eventually became the sole owner until he died suddenly in 1957 leaving his wife to run the business. The Leach’s daughter and husband, Joann and J.H. Williamson ran Jellico Monument until Hackler purchased the business in 1995.
“The business was moved to its present location on the north side of town on U-S Hwy 25W in the 1920s or 30s,” said Hackler. The business is on the Kentucky side of Jellico.
Jellico Monument serves Jellico and Campbell County as well other counties in the region. In Kentucky, it helps folks in Whitley, Knox, Laurel and McCreary Counties plus Anderson, Scott and Claiborne in Tennessee.
“We’ve tried to make improvements to the business over the years. Our inventory is the largest we’ve ever had, and we feature several colors. We consider the larger inventory a service to our customers,” said Hackler.
Hackler likes the fact that he’s been able to develop friendships and get to know his customers over the years. “It’s just another great thing about being in a small town and being able to offer that personal touch,” said Hackler. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-09/25/2025-6AM-PHOTOS COURTESY OF WLAF’S CHARLIE HUTSON)