Benjamin Suchil
CEO in Forney, Texas
Benjamin Suchil cherishes his life in Forney, Texas, drawn by the town's unique blend of rapid growth and deep-rooted community values. As the fastest-growing city in its county, Forney manages to preserve its strong sense of tradition and historical charm. The town is rich with historical artifacts that vividly narrate its proud past, contributing to its distinctive character. Known as the "Antique Capital of Texas," Forney's reputation stems from its numerous antique shops and quaint atmosphere, which owe their existence to the railroad's historical influence.
The Texas and Pacific Railway, which linked Texarkana, Arkansas, and Dallas, Texas, in 1973, played a pivotal role in Forney's development. When construction began in what is now Forney, the town honored the railroad’s civil engineer by naming its post office after him. This milestone spurred significant population growth and economic expansion as commerce and residential areas flourished alongside the railway.
By 1891, Forney had transformed into a thriving community with over 50 commercial establishments, including a bank, an opera house, and two hotels. The town's prosperity was fueled by its ranching and agriculture, particularly the production of "Forney Prairie Hay," a highly valued export due to the nutrient-rich native grass. As the hay trade dwindled, cotton took its place, and by 1910, Forney boasted eight cotton gins, more than any other Texas town of its size. Each autumn, Forney processed 15 to 20,000 bales of cotton, which were shipped to markets across the U.S. During this time, essential infrastructure such as electricity and municipal water and sewage systems were introduced, making Forney one of the early Texas towns to benefit from these modern amenities. The late 1920s saw further advancements with the opening of the Dixie Highway (U.S. 80), enhancing automotive travel, and the Texas Interurban Rail Company launched a commuter rail service in 1923, which ran through Forney for a decade.
Today, Forney continues to support local businesses, maintaining its small-town charm amidst growth. Benjamin Suchil, a recent addition to the local business scene, owns Imperial Floor Rentals. He takes pride in offering exceptional products and customer service, including performance stage backdrops, custom dance floors, bar/DJ scenescapes, cake/ceremony platforms, and vinyl graphics.
For more information about Benjamin and his business, visit his website at benjaminsuchil.net.