Our History
Bradford-Watson Co., Inc. was established in 1890 when two competing local insurance agents, N.C. Bradford and Mac Watson decided to join forces. We like to say "Bradford-Watson Co. is older than Juicy Fruit gum" which was first produced in 1893. Glenmore C. Hodge started working for Bradford-Watson Co. as a young man and bought the business from them in 1922 but decided to keep the name. His son, Glen F. (Dub) Hodge returned to Bonham, Texas after serving in the U.S. Navy during World War ll to work with his father during the "off-season" from his crop-dusting career. Dub's daughter Jennie is the current owner (and third generation in her family) of the business having taken over after her father's death in 1997.
Therefore, Bradford-Watson Co., Inc. is the oldest business in Bonham Texas.
Our Past
N.C. Bradford
Pictured here before the merge in 1890 is Mr. N.C. Bradford in his office that was located on North Main st. here in Bonham.
Mac Watson
Here we have Mr. Mac Watson. Notice the Aetna sign? This sign still occupies the wall of our office.
G.C. Hodge
G.C. Hodge (grandfather to Jennie) worked for Mr. Bradford and Mr. Watson in the early 1920s. In 1922 Mr. Hodge purchased the business and was owner until his death in 1983.
Glen F. (Dub) Hodge
Glen F. Hodge (father to Jennie) but more widely known as "DUB" is pictured here. As a full time crop duster Mr. Hodge was able to assist his father with the business during the off seasons until 1983 when he took over after his fathers passing.
Our Present
As the daughter of Glen F. (Dub) Hodge and granddaughter of Glenmore C. Hodge, Jennie started out as an agent at Bradford Watson Company in 1988. She took over the company in 1997 and has continued the family legacy.
Jennie Hodge Poe
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Jennifer is the latest addition to the Bradford Watson Company. An agent since 2018 and Fannin County native, Jennifer brings a wealth of agency experience to our customers.