"There is no better known firm in this section of Kentucky than Russell, Murrell & Co., leading merchants of this place. The head of the firm, Mr. J.O. Russell, commenced his mercantile career in this place in 1877. At that time he had not reached his majority, entering the store of Mr. W.H. Walker as a clerk.

"In 1880 Mr. Russell and Mr. W.P. Epperson formed a partnership and purchased the stock of goods then owned by Mr. Walker. This partnership was continued until 1882, at which time Mr. Epperson sold his interest to Mr. Sinclair Wheat, the business continuing under the firm name of Wheat & Russell until 1885, when the firm of Russell, Murrell & Yates was organized and Mr. Wheat's interest purchased. This firm only did business a short time, closed out their stock and wound up their affairs.

"In 1887 the firm of Russell & Murrell started on the corner where the store is now located and continued until a few weeks ago when Mr. John Lee Walker, who was a trusted clerk for some time, purchased a one-third interest, and the firm is now Russell, Murrell & Co.--J.O. Russell, Mrs. Kizzie Murrell and John Lee Walker. Mr. Russell and Mrs. Murrell are the buyers and are not excelled in taste by any merchants."

"We take pleasure in announcing the marriage of Mr. J.O. Russell to Mrs. Kizzie Murrell, which will take place at Seelbach's Hotel, Louisville, this (Wednesday) night]... They have been partners in the mercantile business for sixteen or seventeen years, enjoying an extensive trade throughout this section." The front page of the July 19, 1905 News had a large ad for "Russell & Company, Successors to Russell, Murrell & Co."

"Mr. J.O. Russell purchased the Isenburg corner from Messrs. [N.M.] Tutt and [J.P.] Beard last Monday evening for a consideration of $3250. It is the intention of Mr. Russell to remove the old structure and erect in its place a handsome and modern stone building. This is one of the best locations in Columbia for a business house and the purchaser will erect a structure which will be an honor to the town."

"Despite [Columbia's] age, you do not see dilapidated, torn down buildings on the public square. Instead there are handsome two-story business houses that are filled with first class merchandise. One merchant is putting up a new store room which will cost in the neighborhood of $20,000."

"The glass front to the Russell building was placed last Friday and Saturday, making it the most attractive business house in this part of Kentucky...[and] in about two weeks it will be moving day for Russell & Co.",

"To do business with Russell & Co., customers will have to visit the big new store on the South east corner of the square. The firm has been moving from its old stand for several days and by the middle of the week everything will be in readiness at the new building. It is the largest and most conveniently constructed business house in South Eastern Kentucky and has been built at a great expense. It stands as a monument of honor to the owner and it is the pride of this town.

"It is heated with hot air, water works will be installed, and lighted with electricity. Persons who have not been in the interior will be astonished at its immensity and the convenience of its construction. Upon entering the square no one will be in doubt as to where Russell & Co. are doing business. The building towers above all others, and the glass front and the artistic painting make it very attractive."

"If the people of Adair county want to see something nice and attractive, an opportunity will be given them Wednesday and Thursday March 23, and 24--Russell & Co.'s big opening."

"The ladies of Adair and adjoining counties should attend Russell & Co.'s big opening, Wednesday and Thursday, March 23 and 24. All the nicest fabrics will be on display."