As we approach Father’s Day, I have been thinking a great deal about my father. He has always been an inspiration to my brother and me. His life revolved around his family and his work. He spent fifty-two years with A.C. Legg, and certainly was an integral part of its good reputation and success.
A.C. Legg, Inc. was incorporated in Birmingham in 1923. Thirteen years later, in 1936, a twenty-one-year-old Charles W. Purvis was hired as an office employee. That same yar, he married the beautiful Kathryn McArdle. Together, they established his life, a career, and a family. By the 1950’s, Charles and Kathryn had four children, two daughters and two sons. Dad always said that there was a woman at the beginning of all great things. His Kathryn was surely that woman.
As Dad’s worth to the company became evident, he became General Manager and ran the day-to-day operations of A.C. Legg. He worked hard to originate custom formulas for valued customers. When the opportunity came, he was able to purchase shares of stock. In 1979, he was able to buy controlling interest in A.C. Legg, Inc.
Dad always had a sound business philosophy. Perhaps it originated from his Scottish heritage. He felt that the essentials to business success are knowledge, integrity, and the art of pleasing. Without knowledge, no customers at all will come, and without the latter no customer will come twice.
Dad believed strongly in education. He promoted the company’s ties with numerous colleges and universities meat science programs with donated seasonings and sponsorship help. He always encouraged his children and employees to continue their education. He said many times, “Education is something once attained cannot be taken away.”
Over the next nine years, A.C. Legg, Inc. continued to prosper and upgrade its facilities. Unfortunately, Dad died in October of 1988 after a brief illness. His sons and grandsons are constantly striving to abide by Charles W. Purvis’s philosophy and dedication to the company.
Dad would indeed be proud of our new facility here in Calera. With our spacious plant, modern equipment, a Food Safety System, and over one hundred wonderful employees, the company continues to thrive. A.C. Legg, Inc. remains committed to the community and the company’s continued mission: “Quality, Consistency, and Service.”
Happy Father’s Day Dad!
The Late Charles M. (Bud) Purvis
