MC Abstract, a family tradition

The Beard family has a long and storied history in the abstract and title industry in Marshall County, Okla. It all began in 1920 when Ollie Logan Beard purchased Guaranty Abstract and Title.

Over the next few decades, O.L. acquired the other abstract companies in the area and in 1950, rebranded the business as Marshall County Abstract Company. Since then, four generations of the Beard family have worked in and owned the company.

Norvell, one of O.L.'s sons, took over management of the companyafterreturningfrom his time in Kentucky. His brother Wayne also worked in the business while pursuing a career in the oil and gas industry. Various other family members also contributed to the company's success over the years.

In 1975, Herschel, Norvell's oldest child, joined the company and focused on the title insurance side of the business. He expanded the company's services to include real estate closings and played a significant role in its development. In 1986, HerschelboughtoutNorvell's interest in the company and eventually acquired the remaining shares from other family members, becoming the sole owner by 1990.

Herschel was actively involved in the local community, serving on various organizations and in the Methodist Church. He also held positions on the Oklahoma Abstractors Board and the Board of Governors of the AmericanLandTitleAssociation. In 2005, the company relocated to a larger office on the square in Madill to accommodate the growing real estate market around Lake Texoma.

After completing their education, Herschel's sons Wade and J.T.joined the family business. Wade initially worked in the office for a year before pursuing a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management. In 2010, J.T. joined thecompanyaftergraduating from the University of Oklahoma. He briefly left to work for Stewart Title Guaranty Company but returned in 2015.In2022,Wadereturned to the office full-time, focusing on title insurance and escrow, while J.T. continued to handle abstract production.

Both J.T. and Wade are activelyinvolvedintheircommunity. J.T. serves as President of the Oklahoma Land Title Association, following in his father's footsteps, and is a past President of the Madill Alumni Association. Wade is Vice President of the Madill Rotary Chapter and contributes to the Santa's Elves program.

The Beard family cherishes the memories of working together and passing down industry knowledge and community history from one generation to the next. They are committed to supporting and serving their community, a core value that has been instilled in them. Their motto, 'To whom much is given, much is expected,' guides their dedication to serving others to the best of their ability.