A proud new father is home alone with his week-old daughter. Where should he go to show her off?
Thompson’s Hardware, of course.
‘That is the atmosphere of our store,? said Arlene Thompson. ‘One very large, extended family.?
Thompson’s Hardware in downtown Ortonville has been around for 99 years. Ed and Arlene Thompson, the current owners, are only the fourth since 1904.
While they often describe their business and their strong points, they really want to thank their valued customers for supporting them through the years.
‘We thank our customers for our success, but to a greater extent for making us a part of their families,? Arlene Thompson said. ‘It is a rare week when we do not receive invitations to dinner, family events, fudge, flowers, cookies, cider, fresh vegetables, pie and coffee and so much more.
‘Even our dog, Dugan, is a recipient of their favors, either by bringing him treats or, in one case, inviting him to their home for the day,? she said.
Customers often bring their pets in to show them off to the hardware store staff. They’ve had ducks, cats, dogs, horses and even an alpaca stop in.
‘One family came so often, their dog knew the way and started visiting without his owner.?
Customers have been a great help in other ways, as well. When the Thompsons had a special family event during business hours, several customers volunteered to run the business while they attended the event. They took them up on the offer, and they did a great job running the store while they were gone.
‘We get great satisfaction from reports our customers give us on projects they completed with our help. Many customers bring in their completed projects to show us. These projects range from a kayak to tables and rocking chairs.?
When asked, ‘Why do you work the hours that you do?? the Thompsons answer without hesitation, ‘Because of our customers. We enjoy helping and being welcomed into your lives.?
Thompson Hardware is located at 30 South St. in downtown Ortonville. Hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays (except in winter, when it’s 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Telephone is (248) 627-3455.