Minden Man of the Year: SAU grad earns community honors

MAGNOLIA, Ark. (KTAL/KMSS)—Over the years, Tracy Campbell has carefully preserved the history of Minden’s community through his antique collection. He became part of that history after being named Minden Man of the Year.

“It was very humbling,” Campbell said. “When you think of some of the guys who have made a difference in this town, I don’t feel that I’m worthy of that kind of recognition. It was really nice.”

Campbell graduated from Southern Arkansas University in 1999 with a degree in mass communications. Shortly after, he married his high school sweetheart, Jennifer. The two moved to Minden, where Tracy became editor of the Minden Press-Herald.

Tracy then led the marketing department at a community college in Hope, Arkansas, before moving back to Minden in 2003. Then, he decided to start his memorabilia collection, primarily vintage advertising signs and logos.

“I was at my uncle’s house in Sarepta, and I noticed a sign lying on his carport under his truck,” Campbell said. “I asked him what he was going to do with it.”

The sign was only being used by Tracy’s uncle to catch oil as it leaked from his truck.

“He told me I could have it if I could find something to replace it with,” Campbell said. “So I brought him another piece of scrap metal.”

Tracy first became interested in memorabilia at the age of 12.

“It all started when I was a kid,” Campbell explained. “I would ride my bike to garage sales, buy stuff, and put it in my closet. Then, I would sell it to make a profit.”

Tracy’s Interest in older advertising signs and merchandise gradually increased while living in Minden.

“I started with like five pieces, then I had 10,” Campbell said. “Now, I probably have around 300 different items. I just find it enjoyable, and it’s therapeutic.”

Tracy credited SAU for the guidance needed to navigate his career journey.

“SAU has 100 percent prepared me,” Campbell said. “My time at SAU, especially in the journalism department, taught me how to communicate. One of the foundational things you have in life is to know how to communicate both in speaking and writing.

“My time in the Communications Center was beneficial. I got to hone my graphic design skills and my writing skills. Those skills carried me through every job I’ve ever had.”

When asked about items Tracy may bring home, his wife, Jennifer, said she is no longer surprised.

“My family thinks it’s kind of funny,” said Campbell. “They say, ‘You never know what Tracy is going to bring home.’ They know to expect the unexpected,” he laughed.

In what may be his most unique item yet, Tracy recently brought home a 17-foot sign for the former Minden Motel.

“They know I like saving and preserving the local history,” Campbell said. “I’m kind of a caretaker for this stuff. I get to keep it and enjoy it for a little while, and then someone else can have it to enjoy it.”