The Founding of Tyson Foods

As a Springdale High School graduate, I grew up knowing that Tyson Foods World Headquarters were literally just down the street.  I had friends who worked for Tyson.  My first teaching job was at John Tyson Elementary School just behind their offices.  The tall feed mill was a visible landmark on the horizon of Springdale.  Now there is Helen Tyson Middle School and the Don Tyson School of Innovation.  There is a Don Tyson Boulevard.  Tyson Foods always gave to charitable organizations.  They have located their technology team in downtown Springdale.  They have a real commitment to the Springdale community.

I later learned that Don Tyson was also a graduate of Springdale High School.  But I never really knew the story behind the founding of the company.  So upon the request of Heather Grosze, I invited Archie Schaffer III, retired legal counsel for Tyson, to tell the story.  The attached video tells the story of the founding and the transitions that have happened over the years.  It is a great story to share with Arkansas students to inspire them to use the resources available to them for productive purposes.  But mostly to understand that through determination and hard work, they can build and grow an international company. The story of Tyson’s Founding by Archie Schaffer III.