TRIMBLE, Ala. – Near Smith Lake, Whitlock’s General Store and Cafe is a community staple, offering everything from hardware and fishing supplies to delicious meals – a one-stop shop for residents and visitors.
At Whitlock’s Cafe, people can enjoy classic American favorites, including hamburger steaks, chicken fingers, omelets, pancakes and full Southern breakfasts, starting as early as 5 a.m. The dessert menu features specialized cakes, with custom orders available. In the convenience store, customers will find an impressive array of items, including groceries, frozen food, live bait, fishing tackle, plumbing and electrical supplies and even CBD products.
The business was made possible through the hard work and dedication of longtime Trimble residents Bruce and Beatrice “Button” Whitlock. After 28 years of him driving a school bus and his wife’s 38-year career as a teacher, they decided to take a leap of faith and create a business of their own in 1989, when they purchased the original property where the facility still operates today.
“We started small, in a little building out by the road,” Bruce Whitlock said. “After five years, we built this place — 60 by 120 feet — and we’ve expanded twice since then.”
Though successful today, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges.
“We had no retail experience,” he said. “We went in blind.”
Fortunately, supportive vendors and dedicated employees helped the couple navigate early challenges. Staffing issues, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, also posed challenges, but the business has since rebounded with a fully staffed kitchen and store.
Whitlock’s service hours and variety are just some of the many things that set it apart. It’s open six days a week from 5 a.m.-8 p.m. On Sundays, the store offers gas, groceries, gear and a hot meal all under one roof, starting at 6 a.m.
“You can eat breakfast, grab plumbing supplies and pick up bait before heading to the lake,” Whitlock said. “We’re kind of a one-stop shop.”
The store has had a lasting impact on the Trimble community over the years, including during challenging times. In the aftermath of the 2011 tornadoes, Whitlock’s was one of the only places able to operate.
“I bought a generator to power the gas pumps and keep the lights on. People needed fuel, and we were able to help,” he recalled.
When asked what the store means to him, Whitlock didn’t hesitate: “It’s a legacy.”
Locals often use Whitlock’s as a landmark while giving directions, with a “Turn left at Whitlock’s” and even refer to the bridge out front as “Whitlock’s Bridge.”
Looking ahead, Whitlock has plans to keep improving, including expanding the store’s grocery offerings. He said he’s proud of what he and his wife have built.
“We’ve been blessed,” he said. “We did most of this by hand — me and a friend from the fire department, Roger Calvert. It’s been a lot of work, but it’s worth it.”
Whitlock’s General Store and Cafe is located at 6446 County Road 222, Cullman, AL 35057. Find Whitlock’s online at www.whitlockstoreandcafe.com or www.facebook.com/whitlockstoreandcafe.
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