Kellar-Thomason-Fleming Company

Born in Darke County, Ohio, in 1872, Rolla C. Fleming was raised in Illinois and built a successful early career in railroading, advancing through the passenger department of the Wabash Railroad to division passenger agent. In 1912, he relocated to Los Angeles and spent five years as a traveling representative for the Kellar-Thomason Company, pioneers in concrete pipe irrigation and originators of the “KT” valve and gate distribution system.

In November 1917, Fleming moved to Fresno as secretary, treasurer, and general manager of the newly incorporated Kellar-Thomason-Fleming Company. Under his direction, the firm established its regional headquarters in Fresno to supply Central California ranchers with advanced concrete pipe irrigation appliances. An active figure in local commercial affairs, Fleming held memberships in the Fresno Chamber of Commerce, the Fresno Commercial Club, and the Merchants’ Association of Fresno.