Black History Spotlight: JC Aldridge

Editor’s Note: The NEA Town Courier is featuring African Americans who have made significant impacts on the Blytheville area during Black History Month.

Aldridge Building and Electrical company, located on 1128 Thompson Street in Blytheville , was established by James Curtis “JC” Aldridge, Sr., in 1963. “My father started the business and when he retired, I kept it. It’s been here for 57 years,” said current owner James Curtis “JC” Aldridge, Jr.

Aldridge continued, “He picked up carpentry and got pretty good at what he was doing. He then expanded and got his own business in 1963. During that time, in 1967 he was the first black master electrician in Mississippi County.”

Aldridge started working for the company in 1977 and then took ownership when his father retired in 1993.

Aldridge said, “I remember my father telling me that in the 60’s it was tough for a black person in business, especially when you had to compete with other white businesses, things weren’t always equal.”

Aldridge said that as the years passed things got better for the business.

“As time moved on I noticed that since he was so good at what he did, he got a lot of black and white customers.”

Aldridge also mentioned the purpose for the business.

“We remodel homes, answer service calls throughout Mississippi County, work on new buildings and whatever people’s needs are. Our business is here to serve them,” said Aldridge.

Aldridge added, “We have always been licensed bonded and insured. My father always taught me to keep a good name with people and customers.”

“God has made a way for us to sustain even today we are still going,” said Aldridge.