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Robnett's Hardware

Colin Walsh
The Commuter

Friday, November 7, 2008

Not many people may realize it, but when you push the doors open into Robnett’s Hardware Store you are walking into history. Robnett’s Hardware store is the oldest running commercial store in Corvallis and was originally built as a home for the founder of Corvallis (Marysville) J.C. Avery. Built in 1857, the building once served as a supply headquarters for miners heading south in search of gold. The store repaired wagons, serviced horses, sold groceries and a few tools. Since the 19th century the function of the building as a hardware and implement store has not changed. The bright yellow painted bricks have also never been changed, with the exception of a couple paint jobs.

“This is my place. I come here at least twice a week. I can get anything here: a broom or a screw for my lawnmower. They got ya’ covered” Remarked long time shopper Richard Castillo. When you step into Robnett’s, the creak of old floor boards vibrate under your feet. The long slender shelves are packed tight with anything a handyman can dream of. Robnett’s offers many goods to the public but they are vastly known for their huge fixture and fastening room, selling mostly screws, fasteners and washers. “That’s why our motto is screw it, bolt it, nail it,” remarked owner Scott Lockwood.

Diverse selection of goods has kept Robnett’s in business for years, and will continue to do so for years to come. Owners Scott and Tori Lockwood don’t see anything slowing down anytime soon. Scott and Tori are the 6th generation of Robnett’s to run the store as a mercantile business. They have two sons, Nicholas and Jack, who will most likely take the store over when it is their time. But Scott says he is in no rush to hang up his hat quite yet.

Robnett’s Hardware store is a warm cozy place tucked away in the heart of beautiful downtown Corvallis. They always have a heater blasting warm air in the winter. So go hide out form the rain, get warm and take a look at history.

Robnett’s Hardware is located at 400 SW 2nd Street Corvallis, OR 97333. Their phone number is (541) 753-5531.

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