1960s
Above: Evans Grocery and Service Station at old Austin is illuminated by a mercury vapor light that was installed by First Electric. “About 2,500 such lights are in use by members to help safeguard their families and property, extend working hours and generally make their homes or business establishments more attractive at night,” according to the 1966 annual report.
AECC builds first power generating facility
By the next decade, the steam generating plant was becoming a reality. “On June 30, 1961, groundbreaking ceremonies were held for the construction of the ‘Thomas B. Fitzhugh Steam Generating Plant’ at Ozark, the first cooperatively-owned power generating facility in Arkansas,” according to the 1961 report by First Electric President M.W. Scott.
First Electric encourages members to use more
The cooperative encouraged members to use electricity. “In your use of electricity always remember: The more you use, the cheaper it gets,” according to the 1965 report by President M.W. Scott. If needed, First Electric provided assistance on how to use electricity best for members. “Your cooperative has qualified employees available who, upon request, can help you with your use of electricity for irrigation, brooding, hot beds, house heating or any of its many agricultural uses,” according to the 1961 report by Manager Carl Williams. “Your employees can also advise you on correct home lighting, electric cookery, food freezing and the use of electric washers, dryers, or any other appliance you have or plan to purchase.”
All service lines get energized
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As cooperative members across the nation were celebrating the 25th anniversary of the REA program, 24 families in Luber, Ark., were getting ready for “the lights to go on” in their homes for the first time. Energizing of that southern Stone County town marked a milestone: First Electric had completed construction to all of the communities in its service areas.