It’s an end of an era at Hunt’s Hardware store in Rochester. The Thurston Road store has been in business for 101 years.
“It’s sad. I was hoping it would continue. I was hoping things would work out,” said longtime employee Michael Heineman.
Hunt's Hardware Store preceded the Great Depression, but business has declined in recent years to the point that it was no longer viable. A deal was in the works to sell the store, but that sale fell through, making Friday the last day of business.
“I guess it wasn't meant to be, but I’m going to miss all of it,” he continued.
Heineman has worked for the hardware store for 35 years. He’s made plenty of memories, and friends have turned into family.
“It’s a lot of emotions, seeing so many things happen. I felt like I was a part of the family.
The business has been in the Hunt family for four generations. Bill Hunt, the son, has being running the store for the last 20 years. He said Friday was bittersweet.
“It’s tough, but I think it’s time for me to step down and try something different maybe."
What that will be, he’s not sure at the moment. He isn't certain on what will become of the building, either.
“Hopefully someone will offer me something for the building that would be good for the neighborhood, but it won’t be hardware though,” continued Hunt.
Longtime customers like Clinton Rutland are sad to see the store close. Rutland said it’s his go to spot for all his hardware needs.
“I’ve enjoyed it for 35 years, and I’m going to miss it when it’s gone. I can’t come in here and pick up my parts. I will have to go to Home Depot to pick up my parts so I’m going to really miss this place.”
Customers spent Friday picking the store shelves to get whatever was left.
"What we’ve been doing the last couple of days is pretty much having a sale that’s half off and getting rid of most of the merchandise because we’re closing at the end of the day."
The last day of business for what's become a staple in the 19th Ward.