Morris business receives national honor
A Morris business recently celebrated a unique milestone.
Last month, Barger Roller Rink was recognized as the fourth-oldest operating roller rink in the U.S. The rink has been open for 60 years.
Owners Gene and Gail Chambers received a letter from the Roller Skating Association of America noting the historical distinction.
“We knew we was pretty old,” said Gene Chambers. “There’s three others up north that are older than ours. This is history; I’m proud of it.”
Barger Roller Rink was built in 1950 by Gail’s parents, Grady and Lucille Barger. In 1962, the Chambers purchased the roller rink.
Gene Chambers said though styles and music have changed over the years, the “country skating rink” has changed little, with the exception of the occasional floor replacement.
The rink was never the sole income for the Chambers. Gene worked as an electronics technician at the Birmingham airport. Gail operated the Shulou shoe store in Gardendale before starting Dreams Avenue in Morris.
Read the full article in Saturday’s edition of the North Jefferson News.