The History of W. G. Arthur Co., Inc.
The history of Arthur’s began in 1907. After losing his job
as an accountant in the city of Buffalo, William G.
Arthur relocated to Orchard Park to live with his
parents, Charles and Edna. In search of a new career,
William found a job as an apprentice tinsmith with Major Thomas
W. Tyler who owned a shop in Orchard Park. At the age of 71
Tyler was seeking a successor to his business as he was nearing
retirement.
Arthur
obliged and bought a share of the business and the partnership
of Tyler and Arthur was formed. Initially, Mr.
Arthur struggled. When the business required a horse and rig
(right), young William had to pawn his wristwatch to make up his
share of the cost.
In 1908, Tyler retired and sold his share of the business to
Arthur. In 1909 business was improving and Arthur wanted to move
the company to a new location at the crossroads of the village,
which at that time was Orchard Park’s "high-rent district."
When Arthur asked Tyler’s advice on the move, Tyler proclaimed,
"If you move up there you’ll have to do $10 of business a day to
succeed." Arthur was up to the task and moved the store to the
new location.
Thankfully business continued to prosper and in 1921 the building that is still home to Arthur’s Hardware Store was built.
Today, Arthur’s consists of a
True Value hardware store, a small engine repair shop,
and a home furnishings store. Between all of the departments
there are 20 hard-working employees, half of which have been
with the company for at least ten years. Our company focus
is to offer convenience and quality merchandise with a
helpful and knowledgeable staff.
Arthur’s product selection changes daily to ensure that we
meet the changing demands of our customers and our
community. Arthur’s ability to adapt quickly allows us to
continue to be successful.
William G. Arthur’s goal was to "earn
the patronage and respect of his customers by offering them
the proper merchandise at the proper price, and stand behind
that merchandise with prompt, efficient, and friendly
service."
After more than 100 years of service to the community, Arthur’s continues to operate a modern store with a century-old philosophy.
Our inventory has changed a lot in 100 years. Our business approach is set in stone.
3 Generations of the Arthur Family
William G. Arthur, Founder
Edna and Charles Arthur--W.G.'s parents
Charles, William G., and William H. Arthur
William G. and mother, Edna
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