Wimberley Mayor Jim Chiles, Becca Hancock, the Executive Director of the Wimberley Valley Chamber of Commerce, Chamber Ambassadors, and a large crowd of well-wishers were on hand to mark the Grand Reopening of King Feed. The heartwarming event was in stark contrast to the morning of January 25, 2024 when the venerable business burned in an early morning blaze. The fire burned the main part of the building, completely destroying the interior. Fortunately, the garden center and greenhouse areas were spared.
Co-owners Bryan Toifl and Laurie Ward, who took ownership of the business in 2019, vowed then to rebuild. Fifteen months later, on a fine Spring day last weekend, the citizens of Wimberley turned out to celebrate the business’ return. During Mayor Chiles’ remarks on the occasion, listeners burst out in spontaneous applause several times to show what appeared to be their delight at the store’s resiliency.
The main building’s interior has been fully restored and the patio and greenhouse were lush with flowers, plants, pots and other outdoor and garden accoutrements. Musicians Marvin and Laura Bottera performed as shoppers perused the colorful merchandise.
“What a great turnout. We can’t thank the Wimberley community enough for their support,” said Laurie Ward. “They never gave up on us. Customers continued to shop here and it made all the difference. We wouldn’t have been able to stay open without their support.”
The store has resumed normal hours, Monday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Sunday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
