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The Stranded CowThe Stranded Cow

Paducah, KY

Owners:  Bernie and Grace Herbert
Center: Owensboro SBDC

There is one image that remains in the minds of those in Paducah during the flood of 1937, the cow stranded on top of a house.  Each day the Coast Guard and the Boy Scouts would feed and milk the cow.  The story of the cow grabbed national attention when its picture was featured in National Geographic.  When Grace and Bernie Herbert purchased the house through an artist relocation program, they were thrilled with the history, but new it would take much renovation to get it in working order.  Therefore, they met with Tom Hales at the Murray State SBDC in Paducah for assistance with their plans to open The Stranded Cow Café, Catering and Gifts.

“Tom and Kirby have been such an important part of our success. In the middle of our craziness in trying to open they were the guiding hands in helping us make a plan that makes sense and one that we have been able to take to the bank to get started. Without their help we would not be here and having fun while working so hard!” said Grace Herbert.

The SBDC assisted the Hebert’s on a number of start-up issues, including facility design and preparation, strategic business and marketing plans.  The SBDC assistance included:

  • suggestions as to how to maximize results from the timing of the opening with local events
  • introductions to the Chamber for help with marketing promotions in the local news at a favorable rate and ribbon cuttings
  • preparation of financial statements
  • conducting a sensitivity analysis
  • coaching them and practicing with them for their presentation to lenders
  • assisting with the inspection process and making contact with the appropriate agencies

With SBDC guidance, the Herberts received SBA Community Express Loans to start The Stranded Cow.

The Stranded Cow
527 N. 6th Street
Paducah, KY  42001
(270) 575-0020