Now I can hear you ask, ‘Carla, why are you purchasing things at a hardware store?’ Oh but gentle reader, Ortwine was more than a hardware store. It was part of the True Value family. Now, back in the day, True Values carried basically everything a general store did, save for food. So your hardware, fishing poles and accessories, kitchen supplies, envelopes, fabric and notions. Yes, you read correct, fabric and notions.
I tried to be good. Really I did.
I could have really gotten myself in trouble with all these zippers. I mean, come on, they’re metal.
I love the Jac-o-net typography. I just wish my hair were grey or white.
It is a terribly sad thing when a long time small business closes. My grandfather would go there to get his tools for around the house, my mom would get little knick-knacks, my grandmother and my father would go and get keys re-sharpened. Its the little things that can bring a community together like a common one-stop shop.
I hope who ever buys the place does more upkeep, and can keep some of the old stock to sell. Or keeps the same type of family owned quaintness. Either way, I wish the family much luck in their endevours, it felt good to help a small business one last time.
Have any of you experienced an old-fashioned True Value?
What are some notions you’ve purchased lately?
Do you have a favorite family owned business near by?