When Lisa and James Kolbenschlag cut the red ribbon for the Grand Re-Opening of Luther Hardware and Lumber on Saturday, the previous owners, and the previous owner was there to cheer them on.
The couple from Wellston purchased the historic building and business from Steve and Vanna Shaw who operated the business for about 17 years. They purchased it from Sondra LeGrande whose family had it before them.
As the days led up to the re-opening, the building got a fresh coat of paint in the color of blue, and the Kobenschlag’s started turning their long-held dreams of running a hardware store into reality. Lisa honored those who came before them in a social media post.
We feel very responsible and honored to restore this wonderful piece of history that Steve, Vanna and Denise have wonderfully maintained and preserved for the past 17 years. (I have the inspection report to prove it!
Lisa Kolbenschlag, owner, Luther Hardware & Lumber) We love how it turned out and have every intention of keeping the historical feel and look of the building. We would not be able to make these changes if it wasn’t for the special care that was put into the building over the years. We feel extremely blessed to have this opportunity to serve our community. We hope you all love and cherish it as much we do.
With music provided by Opus Entertainment, generous door prizes including a hydraulic jack and a drill, plus food for lunch, a craft table for children, and cake, the Kolbenschlag’s welcomed the community. Long-time customers wandered in and joked they just wanted to make sure the nails, the drills, the auto parts, and the plumbing were in the “right” place.
The couple has plans to offer project events, classes, and eventually expand their stock. Lisa said, however, it’s rare that customers do not find what they need when they come in.
Congratulations to Luther’s newest businesses owners, carrying on a long town tradition at the Luther Hardware & Lumber. Go see them! And go back.
Luther Hardware & Lumber, 114 E First. LIke them on Facebook.
