History of Peach Park
Peach Park was established in 1985 by Gene Gray as an alternative to hauling the Chilton County peaches
by truck to New Orleans for sale on the French Market. It began as a simple roadside fruit stand. However,
in 1988, Peach Park began making what is known as their main attraction – Homemade Ice Cream. Gene’s wife
and partner, Frances Gray was known to work well into the night making the famous homemade peach ice cream
in order to keep up with the ever-growing crowds.
To say Peach Park has grown since the late 1980’s is a major understatement. Along with the many flavors of homemade ice cream and fresh fruit bar, other delicious treats were added. Fresh from scratch fried pies and cobbler soon became a favorite, along with good old-fashioned, southern barbeque. A fresh salad bar was the latest addition to the menu.
The 90’s saw the addition of a gift shop, gourmet food items, and a playground.
And, the new millennium brought an opportunity for another dream of Mr. Gray’s to be accomplished. Mr. Gray
had long wanted to provide an alternate location where his loyal customers could purchase their Peach Park favorites
such as barbeque, ice cream, and pies at a drive-thru, YEAR ROUND. Sadly, Gene Gray did not live to see his dream completed.
He went to be with the Lord on December 13, 2005. His family saw to the completion and opening of Peach Park Express / Texaco
in May 2006. His memory will live on in his family, friends, and many patrons of Peach Park.
Peach Park is currently owned and operated by the Gray family. Frances Gray, mother to Derek, Mark, and Shannon, can still be seen making her famous homemade ice cream when she is not babysitting grandchildren Dallas, Regan, Tanner, Caden, and Garrett. Mark, Derek, and brother-in-law Allen Hathcock keep the business running smoothly with the help of many dedicated employees.
