The 21st century is undoubtedly earmarked by technology and innovation. In many ways the old-fashioned is aged out. But there are still pillars of the community that hold memory and a legacy of the sustainability of yesterday. Such is the case with Hunt’s Hardware. Located in the city of Rochester’s historic 19th Ward neighborhood, the locally-owned and operated hardware store is approaching its 100th year of being in business at the same Thurston Road spot. But of course, the legacy goes way beyond 100 years.
Current owner Dave Hunt says the story began in 1890 in Belfast, New York. Hunt’s Hardware was founded by his great grandfather, Issac Hunt. Hunt was an avid builder, having built 25 homes while in Belfast. The original Hunt’s Hardware began there, and the original building still stands today. In 1911, Mr. Hunt moved to the city of Rochester and purchased property located at 232 Chili Avenue. With the Hunt name also came the Hunt talent. Issac wasted no time building some properties in the city, including the current location where Hunt’s Hardware currently resides. Hunt’s Hardware was established at 366 Thurston Road between 1914 and 1917. From there, the rest is history. The business is now in the hands of its fourth generation, even including Dave’s niece and nephew.
The small business was lucrative and profitable, and still is. But with the change of the economy and times, Hunt’s Hardware has seen its share of hardship. The change began with the advent of franchises like Walmart and Home Depot in smaller suburbs and towns. Hunt’s took a blow in their marketplace as the bigger franchises catered more to home projects rather than their specialty of repairs and fixes. In addition, there was a perception of smaller businesses carrying higher prices, Dave says. But despite the challenges Hunt’s found ways to survive. They morphed their brand from just hardware and dry goods and moved into the pharmaceutical business. It’s a measure that Dave says has helped keep the store as a mainstay in the community.
Hunt’s Hardware is undoubtedly a recognized pillar of good business and hard work in the city of Rochester. It is located at 390 Thurston Road and is open 7 days a week. There is so much that can be learned from this business. Perhaps most notable is that even in the face of a changing world, there are still some things that can survive.
