Bill Knowles was one of the original 18 members that met in Atlanta, Georgia in March 1914 and created what we now call the "National Watermelon Association." He operated Knowles and Co. for many years in Leesburg, Florida.

Bill also owned the Foremost Fertilizer Company established in 1947. Mr. Knowles served as the Sergeant At Arms of the Melon Distributors Association (the original name of the National Watermelon Association from 1937-1938.)

"He was a registering agent for the National Watermelon Association - until the Association changed its name." - Buddy Leger

News Clippings & Photos

                 News Clippings                                                                     

                 Leading Watermelon Handler

                Census