Horton's Hardware closing after 20 years in business

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Horton's Hardware, a Highlands Fixture, is calling it a Retirement Sale after 20 years in business on Dundee Road in the Highlands.

Owner Larry Horton has pictures by the cash register. He says, "That's a picture of the Loop in 1941." He shows us his autographs and pictures of Sam Bush and other musicians. He says, "I play music and love music and that's my passion, if you will."

Horton's other passion: his business. He works 75 hours a week doing things like cutting keys and mixing paint. At one time, he had nine employees, but now just three.

His lease is up at the end of the year, but he decided it's time to call it quits after suffering from a back injury a couple of years ago.

Horton said, "It's like losing a family member. You put your heart and soul in something for 20 years and then you are having to watch it be dissembled. It's a little tough."

Horton bought the business back in 1995. But this has been a hardware store since 1936.

Horton said, "The big box stores have been around long enough, it's not quite as big deal as it was 25 years ago. I do think Amazon and the internet play is probably a bigger deal now, just because you can stay home, sit on the couch and they'll deliver to your house."

But it's his customer service and the sense of community here that keeps loyal customers coming back.

Customer Ken Tuck said, "I support local people, plus it's convenient. I can buy one of something or 10 of something and I get exercise riding my bike or walk up here."

Horton has been looking for someone to buy his business for the past six months and is hoping someone will purchase it last minute. Horton says it's not the "things" he'll miss. Rather, it's all his customers who have become great friends.

"I'm going to take some time," Horton says. "Get back on my feet with my back. Then see what doors open."

If there isn't a new owner, Horton's Hardware will be closed for good on December 20th. That's the day for the auction for any remaining items.