Horaney’s, a long-standing Longview business, continues to serve the community from its location at 301 W. Methvin Street, more than 80 years after its founding. Operated by Betty Horaney and her son, Al Horaney, the store offers a wide range of products including plants, seeds, fertilizer, gardening and farming supplies, horse and pet supplies, bird seeds, outdoor decor, and grills. The business also features solid wooden furniture crafted from reclaimed materials, items customers say they often cannot find elsewhere.
Betty Horaney and Al Horaney were present at the store just before the Fourth of July, discussing the business's history and its connection to Longview. Betty Horaney, who is set to turn 89 in August, remains actively involved in the daily operations. The store is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., remaining closed on Sundays.
The unique wooden furniture sold at Horaney’s is handmade by Timber Image, a company from Brownsville that uses reclaimed wood, chains, and rope from retired ships. Betty Horaney recalled the unexpected arrival of the first shipment of this furniture, noting the importance of offering distinct products to compete with larger retail chains. Customers often express appreciation for the local business, stating, “we can find what we need in here.”
Beyond merchandise, Horaney’s provides knowledgeable advice on topics such as gardening and pest control. The store faces competition from online retailers and big box stores, but attributes its resilience to personalized service and deep product knowledge. Betty Horaney recounted an instance where a customer sought advice on a product, then indicated an intention to buy it online, only to find Horaney’s price was $3 cheaper, leading to an immediate sale. Customers commend the Horaneys for their willingness to engage and provide expertise, a contrast to the experience at some larger establishments.
Horaney’s Feed and Seed store began in Gladewater in 1930, founded by Harry Horaney, Betty’s deceased father-in-law. The business moved to downtown Longview in 1940, initially on Court Street. Following Harry Horaney's death, his son, Albert Horaney, and his wife, Betty, took over the store's operations. Betty frequently brought her and Albert's two sons, Al and Ron, to the store when they were young, recalling how they would play in a playpen behind the counter.
In 1993, the family constructed a new building at the current 301 W. Methvin Street address. Three years later, in 1996, Court Street was renamed Horaney Street following the death of Betty's husband, Albert Horaney. After Albert's passing, Ron joined his mother in operating the Longview store. Al, at that time, managed a separate Horaney’s location in Tyler. However, following Ron Horaney’s murder in 2016, the Tyler store closed, and Al returned to Longview to join his mother in running the family business.
Betty Horaney emphasizes the strong community support the business received, particularly after Ron’s death, describing the outpouring of love. She considers many customers as friends, noting that the store has built a loyal, generational customer base. Many patrons specifically seek out dog and horse care products, and various lawn care companies and businesses rely on Horaney’s for supplies like fertilizer. Despite the demands of a family-run business, Betty expresses her love for working at the store and engaging with people, viewing it as her home and a source of activity. Al acknowledges his mother's deep dedication, remarking on her continued presence and energy at 88 years old, with her 89th birthday approaching in August. The Horaneys continue to operate the business, serving their long-standing customer base in Longview.
