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.
In 2007, 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 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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