The American Civil War began in 1861, and it was in full swing in 1863 when a new hardware store opened in the small town of New Providence, Iowa. That tidbit of history might have been forgotten among all the turmoil and heartbreak of its day except for the fact that the New Providence Hardware Store didn’t close, crumble, and become forgotten in all the years since (although it did burn once).

Rather, this hardware store is still open, and you can still step inside to cool off (or warm up, depending on the season) and drink root beer while you swap stories with the owners or browse the inventory!

New Providence Hardware / Facebook

Stepping inside this iconic old store will give you a window into what it may have been like for your grandparents to shop as a child. It’s almost beyond belief that a store has been open for so long.

New Providence Hardware / Facebook

The owners say it’s the community support that has enabled the New Providence Hardware Store’s doors to stay open and the shelves to be stocked. But it goes both ways; in a rural agricultural community, a hardware store is as important as a place to buy groceries.

New Providence Hardware / Facebook

It touches on most parts of life, from replacing a barn door that the wind damaged to getting a new pump for your heating system. Rural communities also rely on the expertise, advice, and shared knowledge available at the local hardware store. 

New Providence Hardware / Facebook

Much of the store has been preserved from its original days; for example, non-electric cash register will greet you if you make any purchases! Although you can’t buy wagon wheels here anymore, you can find quality and reliable hardware, home decor, and farm supplies.

New Providence Hardware / Facebook

The store has added plumbing, heating, appliances, and more to generate additional business.

New Providence Hardware / Facebook

Add this store to your bucket list, and enjoy exploring a portion of the charming community of New Providence, whose population, at around 220, is only 40 less than it was in 1900! Some things don’t change very quickly!

New Providence Hardware / Facebook

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Address: New Providence Hardware Inc, 401 W Main St, New Providence, IA 50206, USA