Norfolk Hardware & Home Center Celebrates 85 Years & Their Grand Reopening
On September 21, 2019, Norfolk Hardware & Home Center celebrated their 85th anniversary as a family-owned business, as well as their grand reopening with a big bash at their Mattapan store. The party was an opportunity to celebrate not only Norfolk’s recent milestones but to thank the local residents and contractors for their support over the last 85 years.
The History
Norfolk Hardware & Home Center was founded by Lena and Benjamin Rosen, who immigrated to the US in the early 1900s. After settling in the Mattapan area of Boston, Ben began a career as a plumber, installing water heaters & purchasing plumbing fittings from local hardware stores. His strong entrepreneurial spirit got him thinking about the possibility of buying his own supplies direct from the manufacturer, and even supplying to others like himself. He and Lena opened a small hardware store on Norfolk St. in Mattapan in 1934 and aptly named it Norfolk Hardware. Eventually, the product offerings at Norfolk Hardware grew so extensive that they expanded the name to Norfolk Hardware & Home Center. Due to size constraints, Norfolk Hardware & Home Center eventually relocated to its current location on Morton Street in Mattapan and recently underwent a complete store remodel in 2017.
The 85th Anniversary Party
The free, family-friendly event on September 21st featured live music with the Bourbon Chasers, BBQ provided by Celebrity Chef Pitmaster Andy Husbands of The Smoke Shop restaurants, as well as a special appearance by Billy Costa of Kiss 108FM and NESN. Partygoers enjoyed the music & activities, including party games, face painting, crafts, a dunk tank, flash sales, and raffles.
All activities were free with a suggested donation to the Pine Street Inn, a local organization supporting the homeless. In total, the community pulled together over $800 in donations.
Kicking Off A Year-Long Celebration
The party didn’t stop on September 21st. In fact, Norfolk plans to continue the celebration over the next year, with special events, sales, cooking demonstrations, how-to videos, and more! Stay tuned for more information!