May 1, 1947: Longview Packing Co. Inc. opened its ultra-modern plant, an enterprise seen as a major step toward the city becoming the livestock marketing center of the region. The plant a mile south of the city just off the Kilgore Highway was to employ from 75 to 100 workers. It was termed the most modern and conveniently laid-out plant of its size in the country by packing trade publications.