Webster's History {Written May 2005}

Webster’s is “an old friend in Greenwood ,” says the Greenwood Commonwealth in a 2005 article introducing the establishment’s new owners. At that time, Matt Gnemi and Robert McBryde had made the decision to give it a shot, buying the local hangout that has been a mainstay in Greenwood since 1975. Originally known as Ricky’s Bar and then Jubilee’s after changing ownership in 1977, the Webster’s name has been on the sign out front since being introduced in 1979 – over 26 years ago.

Matt Gnemi and Robert McBryde purchased Webster’s in early 2005 after many “what if” discussions with friends about how to make it work. Everyone had basically given up on the idea when Gnemi and McBryde decided they would give it a shot if they could purchase the business for a reasonable price. A deal was finally struck and the two took over in March 2005. Their first move was to find a manager…and fast! Both work at Viking Range Corporation and had no time to run the day-to-day operations of a restaurant. After local surveying and searching, they decided on Michael Mosley, a native of Hollandale , Mississippi , who had a lot of industry experience. Mosley had worked in numerous restaurants from Greenwood to San Francisco and had worked in just about every position – from waiter to bartender to cook to management. He brought a wealth of knowledge as well as a Delta following of friends and family. Michael was the perfect fit for the new owners of Webster’s.

After taking ownership, Matt and Robert began making changes. The first alterations were made to the inside, changing from an airplane theme to a Delta theme. Black and white photography from locals Andrew Lamb of Lamb’s Photography in Greenwood , Stephanie Ward, and Lynn McCool were the foundation of the theme. The photos are of Delta landscapes, local history, and agriculture. Some of the photos provided by Lamb are great old pictures that his grandfather took – one of Keesler Bridge rotating on its central support column and one of downtown Greenwood during its heyday. In addition, the place was cleaned up, a fresh coat of paint was applied, the pond on the patio was thoroughly cleaned, and additional TVs were added for watching ballgames. Since the re-opening of Webster’s, there have been many additional improvements such as a new sign, new storm windows in the front of the building and insulation added in the roof (that’s right – there was basically no insulation in the roof; that’s the way they did it over 60 years ago)! Also, almost every air conditioning unit has been replaced, a new roof was recently added, and the hardwood floors have been re-finished.

After undertaking these upgrades to make Webster’s more comfortable and efficient (nothing was done to mess up the “coming home” feel of the great old house), Matt and Robert decided it was time to bring in a third investor – someone with a little capital, a good sense of what they were trying to do with Webster’s, and a knowledge of the local market. They eventually found that partner in John Stewart. John, a life-long resident of Greenwood and a manager at PYCO Industries, was excited about the changes that had already been made at Webster’s and the opportunities for future growth. He brought a lot of new ideas and a desire to continue the growth of the business. Throughout the first year, the business focused on what has become an unofficial motto – “good food, good friends, good times!” The key to Webster’s success so far has been offering good food at a reasonable price, good service, live music a few times a week, and a great atmosphere for people to gather and unwind after work, to eat dinner with family, or to just hangout with friends. The interior of the building is very inviting and comfortable, and the patio (originally dubbed the McGnemi Patio; since changed to the Stewart-McGnemi Patio) offers a unique outdoor setting which has become a favorite of the locals. From the wood floors to the aged brick fireplaces to the chairs and tables that sometimes have a little lean to the friendly staff, Webster’s is like coming home – whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been coming by for years.

Matt, Robert, and John are very thankful for the local support they have received since taking on this venture. Everyone in the community has been very supportive through their kind words and patronage. In turn, Matt, Robert, and John show their appreciation by being supportive of local charities and community efforts. From sponsoring and hosting the Community Kitchen “Celebrity Waiter” Fundraiser to supporting the Greenwood-Leflore Chamber of Commerce, Webster’s understands the importance of being good stewards in the community.

The owners’ goal is to create a great place to eat, to visit with friends and associates, and to have a good time. Thanks to the hard work and the support of many, Webster’s has become a great place to eat and THE place in Greenwood to hangout with friends and family.