Tampa connection helps sale of prize hog at National Western
By ROWENA PLETT
Staff writer
A buyer's Tampa connection helped Aaron Barney of Tampa sell a hog Jan. 21 for a premium of $3,000 at the National Western Stock Show auction of junior livestock champions.
The hog took first place in its class and was purchased by Carter Energy Corporation, Overland Park.
Aaron and his father, Gene, who accompanied him to Denver, talked to the buyers after the sale and discovered they had a Tampa connection.
Nancy Beaver and her husband, Bryan, representing Carter Energy. started to bid on the hog when she noticed the owner was from Tampa. Her father is a descendant of a Hackler born at Tampa.
According to Marion County History, Past and Present, by Sondra Van Meter, Hacklers played a prominent role in the development of Tampa during the 1880s.
In 1883, Mrs. T.J. Hackler, a widow with 10 sons, bought 160 acres at the town site. Four years later, she sold 127 acres to the Golden Belt Town Co., which platted the town of Tampa.
In addition to farming, the Hackler family was engaged in numerous enterprises including a general store and blacksmith shop. One son purchased a building from Rhodes Stucco Mill, moved it into town, and made it the Tampa Hotel. It was closed in the 1960s.
The building remains in the Hackler family. Part of it was converted into living quarters and continues to be occupied by a Hackler descendant, Jerry Busch. It is one of only two original buildings remaining.
A 2004 graduate of Centre High School, Aaron Barney is a freshman at Hutchinson Junior College and a member of the livestock judging team.
Because his hog received first place, he had the chance to compete for a scholarship. He was interviewed, gave a speech, and took a test. Results won't be known until March.
A Duroc hog shown by Barney finished in fourth place. He also placed fifth among 78 contestants from 17 states in senior showmanship.
Barney, his sister Alisha, Konley Harding, and Alfonse Klenda represented Centre High School FFA chapter at the show. His father and chapter adviser Cary Granzow were adult sponsors. Alisha Barney placed eighth in her class with a crossbred hog.
