HARRISBURG -- Travis Farley knew he was onto something great 11 years ago when he was approached by a group of voraciously hungry firefighters.
Farley, a former and again current resident of Galatia, was living in Cambria and had spent the last several days barbecuing meat for his oldest son's upcoming birthday. The smoke and the smell drifted daily to the nearby fire department, teasing the firefighters to the point of surrender. They followed the scent of the pit to Farley's home and asked him to cater their next training. It was the start to many years of planning and dreaming for his current occupation.
Hometown BBQ was a bucket list item that is now a reality. Farley opened his drive-up and takeout dream at the beginning of April on McKinley Street in Galatia, sitting conveniently next to the highway. Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, he is encouraged by the support of his family, the community and people visiting from all over Southern Illinois.
"I haven't been able to freeze anything I have made yet because we keep selling out," Farley said. "We have just been slammed, and it's great."
Farley made the decision to pursue his dream a few years ago, but an opportunity to launch presented itself again in the last few months.
"I was selling ag equipment and the industry took a nose dive. I tried to buy this place three years ago and it didn't work out but it came back open and I knew it was time," Farley said. "I have two young kids and I coach Little League. I wanted more time for my family."
With the help of his family and his own personal investment, Farley made it happen. Upon visiting Hometown BBQ, you will be greeted by Farley or his co-worker and relative, Logan Carter. The business is quickly becoming a staple as the pre-made "SOLD OUT" sign sits next to the window, already showing signs of wear.
Farley is a proud member of the Galatia community and looks forward to serving those living and visiting the area.
"When the school has a function, I can help donate to it," Farley said. "I want to give back and I am firm believer in supporting the community."
Farley was able to utilize the Workforce and Illinois Small Business Development Center at Southeastern Illinois College. He was able to bring in his plan and ideas and use the free counseling the program offers.
"I had an idea of what I wanted to do but it was nice to have the support and second opinion of which way to go," Farley said.
Hometown BBQ serves a variety of barbecue pork platters, sandwiches, sides, appetizers and drinks.
For more information, visit Hometown BBQ at facebook.com/hometownbbqgalatia.
• The Workforce & Illinois Small Business Development Center is designed to assist owners and managers of small businesses as well as anyone wanting to start a business in the area. Most of their services are available free. For more information about the WISBDC and their services call (618) 252-5400 ext. 2312.
