Belcher’s Trophies and Swift Creek Mill Theatre were among five businesses that were recognized during Chesterfield County’s Investiture Ceremony last month. The Rooted in Business program also recognized Crab Louie’s Seafood Tavern, Metro Richmond Zoo and The Boathouse.
Garrett Hart, director, Economic Development, recognized the businesses during the ceremony. Each business had representatives in the audience and were recognized as Hart read their story.
“Belcher’s Trophies epitomizes the spirit of small business,” he said. “Kitty Belcher founded the business in her home in 1984. Today, her husband, Wendell “Tiny” Belcher, and their son, Tyler Belcher, continue Kitty’s business legacy in their shop on Iron Bridge Road. The shop handles everything from trophies, plaques and awards to name tags, signs and memorial/historical markers. Customers from throughout Virginia call on the business for their needs.
The owners say it’s the county’s ideal business climate that keeps them here and running strong. The business has a staff of five and has employed many local high school students. Belcher’s stays focused on supporting the community through its donations to nonprofits, churches, youth sports leagues and schools.”
“Swift Creek Mill Theatre continues to be a major cultural presence in the county and throughout the region through its acclaimed productions,” Hart said. “It operates in a cherished historic mill built in 1663. The beloved theater, located off Jefferson Davis Highway, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Swift Creek Mill is on the National Historic Registry and is believed to be the oldest gristmill in the U. S. Its history is as varied as it is long. Three local families who shared a dream of bringing live professional theater to the area bought the mill in 1965 and transformed it into a dinner theater. Today, Swift Creek Mill Theatre produces five to six main stage productions yearly, totaling 175 performances.
By Linda Fausz
