Historic Mid-Michigan Hardware Store Closing After 87 Years

Growing up just a few miles down the road in Durand, Vernon always felt like part of the neighborhood. My best friend's grandma lived there, so we were in town all the time.

Vernon Says Goodbye to a Piece of Local History

And if you spent any time in a small town, you know places like Vernon Hardware weren't just where you bought a hammer or a bag of screws. They were where you ran into your neighbors, caught up on the latest gossip, and probably got better advice than you would at one of those giant chain stores.

Now, after 87 years, MLive reports that Vernon Hardware & Auto Supply is closing its doors for good. The family-owned store on M-71 announced that July 31 will be its final day in business. In a heartfelt message, the owners thanked generations of customers who helped make the business what it became, saying the relationships they built over the decades meant far more than simply making a sale.

A Multi-Generational Mid-Michigan Tradition

Current owners Andy Fults and Betsy Ethington, who have operated the store for about 30 years, said writing the announcement was one of the hardest things they've ever had to do. They reflected on serving grandparents, parents, children, and now even grandchildren from the same families.

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Reading through the comments online is enough to tell you this isn't just another business closing. People are sharing memories, thanking the owners, and talking about everything from finding that one impossible-to-find part to simply stopping in to chat. Those are the places that make small towns special.

More Than Just a Local Hardware Store, Vernon Says Goodbye

Big box stores can sell you just about anything, but they can't replace 87 years of memories, familiar faces, and the feeling of walking into a place where everybody already knows your name.

This one hits close to home for me. It's always tough to see another hometown institution disappear. Here's hoping Andy, Betsy, and everyone who's been part of Vernon Hardware over the years knows just how much they meant to that community.