Rob and Susan Rider married 13 years ago and work side-by-side every day at O. A Newton, a fourth-generation business since 1916.
Oliver Newton started an agricultural business with his son, Warren, back in 1916. Rob is the grandson of Warren.
“My grandfather was an entrepreneur who continued to morph and grow the business over the years. My wife and I have continued to follow his philosophy and moved the business into the 21st Century,” Rob said.
One reason the business has succeeded for more than 100 years was Warren’s philosophy that if there was a need in the community, he would try to fill it.
Five years ago, Rob and Susan added a Farm and Ranch store to the existing irrigation business, thus introducing a retail component into what had been a business-to-business enterprise serving the farm community.
“That retail piece is the brainchild of my wife,” Rob said. “It was a fitting addition for the area and the clientele we serve.”
One year ago, they added Lindenmere, a home decor and gift shop co-located with O. A. Newton. The unusual name is a tribute to Rob’s childhood family farmstead which was lined with linden trees.
Lindenmere and the Farm and Ranch are year-round stores with merchandise changing with the seasons. The Farm and Ranch is gearing up for the season right now and Lindenmere is bringing in a beautiful spring line.
Rob said, “We offer quality products, and our greatest asset is our knowledgeable employees. We want customers to experience a personal touch when they visit.”
O.A. Newton Farm and Ranch Store and Lindenmere are located at 16356 Sussex Highway in Bridgeville.
