“It’s been a great run,” Horton Hardware closing after 118 years

AFTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) — As it has for 118 years, Horton has it, but not for much longer.

Horton Hardware in Afton is holding a liquidation sale as its owners plan to close the doors and retire. Horton’s is a traditional hardware store and more, selling paints and hand tools, but also bedding, laundry appliances, work clothing, boots and more.

It was opened in 1906 by Clark Horton and originally sold sleighs and wagons in addition to hardware. It was purchased by Charlie Gaydorus in 1959 and is currently owned by his sons Steve and Al.

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The brothers made the announcement last week prompting a massive community response. Last Thursday, the store was jammed, police had to direct traffic and there wasn’t a parking spot to be had in the village. “It’s been a great run. We’re hearing a lot of great comments from people and they’re sad that we’re leaving. We really had hoped that someone would purchase the business and have it keep going for the community,” Al said.

Al and Steve had been trying to sell the business for the past 2 years, but never got a buyer. Al says knowledgeable employees and individualized service is what has kept customers coming back. Donna Gaydorus is Steve’s wife and the business’s bookkeeper.

“It’s still a place to come and meet your neighbor, talk about even just the weather. It’s a gathering place. All of the families have been very involved with one another. It’s such an honor to be part of Main Street America,” Donna said.

Al says the sales will continue until the walls are bare.

There are also free drawings for 25 hundred dollars worth of prizes, no purchase necessary. Horton Hardware is open 8 to 5 Monday through Friday and 8 to 3 on Saturdays.

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