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July 21, 2026
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Download official Senate Record PDFReturn to issue contextMs. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Taylor's Maid-Rite of Marshalltown, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.
out of the need for a convenient, affordable meal that could be assembled quickly, customized with a variety of toppings, and still deliver great taste. Following its immediate success, Angell began franchising the concept, expanding first to Newton in 1927 and then to Marshalltown in 1928. Soon after, Cliff and Emma Taylor purchased the Marshalltown franchise, establishing what would become Taylor's Maid- Rite. Alongside the signature sandwiches, the couple introduced homemade pies and cinnamon rolls while sourcing ingredients such as pickles and buns from other local businesses.
family, now entering its fourth generation. In 1944, Cliff and Emma's son Don Taylor and his wife Polly assumed ownership and continued expanding the business. They built a cooler beneath their home to keep ingredients fresh. In 1958, they opened a new building across the street from the original location, outfitted with modern stainless- steel equipment and two cash registers. After Don's passing in 1973, Polly continued operating the restaurant until her grandson Don Short became the owner in 1985. When Don Short later pursued a different career, his mother Sandy Taylor Short assumed leadership of the family business, where she continues to serve today alongside her children— Don, David, and Sarah—who are all part owners.
daily to ensure freshness and quality and serves homemade ice cream made from its original recipe. Nearly a century later, the restaurant remains a family-owned Iowa tradition supported by dedicated employees and loyal customers throughout Marshall County.
Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce. In recognition of her commitment to the community, Sandy received the Chamber's Women in Business Award in 2023. Taylor's Maid-Rite has also earned numerous accolades, including MSN.com's 2017 “Best Sandwich in Iowa,” Midwest Living magazine's 1997 recognition as the “King of Loose Meat Burgers,” Business Insider's 2026 designation as Iowa's “Most Iconic Sandwich Shop,” and the 2023 Marshalltown Small Business of the Year Award. The restaurant was also featured in Travel + Leisure magazine in 2006, and its signature sandwiches were served at George Motz's Hamburger America during April and May 2025.
its community. The restaurant famously celebrates Marshalltown High School football victories by providing free malts after every home win. If the team captures a State championship, players are rewarded with free Maid-Rite sandwiches and malts. Taylor's Maid-Rite's continued investment in Marshalltown reflects the same entrepreneurial spirit that inspired Cliff and Emma Taylor nearly 100 years ago.
Taylor's Maid-Rite for their dedication to Marshalltown and Marshall County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.