Aubrey, AR

Aubrey is a small town in Conway County, Arkansas, located about 20 miles south of Little Rock. The population was 1,821 at the 2010 census. Aubrey is home to the historic Aubrey Opera House and the annual Aubrey Apple Festival.

The town was founded in 1873 by J.D. Aubrey and named for his wife, Alice (Baxter) Aubrey. The first business in Aubrey was a general store operated by J.D.'s brother-in-law, Wm. Baxter. In 1875, J.D.'s son, Willard D. Aubrey opened a lumberyard and began to build homes in the area; one of these homes still stands today as the oldest structure in town (built in 1876).

In 1886, Willard D.'s brother-in-law A.C. Tate established what would become one of the largest businesses in town: Tate Lumber Company (now part of Georgia-Pacific). In 1901, Willard D.'s son Elmer opened an automobile dealership which soon became one of the most successful businesses in town; it is now known as Elmer's Automotive Service Center (still operating today).

In 1915, Jethro Kirtland built what would become one of the most iconic structures in Aubrey: The Kirtland Mansion (now used as offices by local government). In 1922, Willard D.'s son Walter opened a grocery store which quickly became one of the busiest stores in town; it is now known as Wal-Mart Supercenter #2128 (still operating today).

During World War II , many men from Aubrey served their country overseas; among them were two brothers: Don and Billie Joe White who both served with distinction during Operation Overlord . After returning home , Don White founded White Motors Corporation which quickly became one of the largest automobile dealerships in Arkansas; it is now known as White Motors / AutoZone #5010 (still operating today).

In recent years , several new businesses have opened up in Aubrey including a health club/spa called Body & Soul Fitness Club ; a pizza restaurant called Pizza Hut ; and an automotive repair shop called Midas Auto Repair . There are also several new homes being built each year; among them are some very impressive luxury homes such as The Bridges at Willow Creek .