Walker’s Hardware Celebrates 50 Years

LOCK HAVEN — Tom Shortledge was working at International Paper back in 1995, had logged 18 years there and decided he wanted to own his own business.

Knowing the purchase of the paper mill wasn’t going to happen, Shortledge jumped at the next best opportunity when owners Bill and Jacqueline Smith decided to sell Walker’s Hardware and Supply. Shortledge and wife Cathy made the purchase and have continued the full service hardware operation, a Lock Haven landmark, ever since.

Through this Saturday the Shortledges will mark the 50th anniversary at the century-old building at Bellefonte Avenue and First Street. They will do it with special prices and door prizes and refreshments too.

Shortledge said his interest in hardware actually began back in 1976 when he worked briefly for the Smiths. He said the decision to buy 19 years later was not a difficult one and he has enjoyed the experience ever since.

He said he particularly likes the day-to-day give-and-take with customers, always willing to answer their fix-it questions. Shortledge said he is proud to be part of the local community.

He lauded his help, Matt Fink and his four years, Joe Considine with 10 years and Shortledge now with 21 years serving the central Pennsylvania area.

Shortledge said he enjoys his job but did indicate a desire to cut back a bit to allow Tom and Cathy to spend more time with their children and grandchildren: son Tom Jr. and wife Liz in Rochester, NY with their children Jack and Lucy; son Ben and wife Leah with children Colby and Owen in Jackson Hole, WY; and daughter Mary Beth and her husband Mark Zimmerman in Harrisburg.