We left Jodie Thompson loading ice wagons for Consumers Ice in Oak Cliff…..
He must have done alright for himself during those busy high school years of loading wagons, because he went to the University of Texas at Austin and earned a business degree. Upon returning to the Dallas area, he worked his way further up the Consumers Ice ladder and was in charge of negotiations when Southland Ice bought up Consumers Ice. He then found himself as CEO of the entire Southland Ice Company chain.
The manager who worked the Southland Ice store at Edgefield and Twelfth in Oak Cliff made money during the slow winters by selling milk, bread, eggs, cigarettes and canned goods at his location. He brought this idea to Jodie Thompson and this was the true beginning of the 7-Eleven we all know and love. Jodie Thompson took the idea to heart and instituted convenience shopping at all Southland Ice locations. Kudos to you, unnamed Edgefield and Twelfth manager! I hope you got a raise.
Want to know more about Dallas history? Book one of our tours! Or make up one of your own – customized tours and hours are welcomed. (There is at least one 7-Eleven on each of the West End tour routes, ha.)
