Today as I was browsing through some old newsletters I came across an article about Shelton-Riggs Hardware Company, which was located on the northeast corner of the square in Kennett. Although I do not remember the hardware store, I do remember that Wilcoxson Furniture was located in the same building after Shelton-Riggs moved. Later, Fred’s Dollar store was opened there after Wilcoxson Furniture moved to its new location on the South By-Pass.
Years ago the foundation of this well known hardware house were laid deep and strong, and on them has been build up the substantial enterprise which now is regarded as one of the premier houses in the retail commerce of Dunklin County.
Founded back in 1901 or 1902, this business was formerly conducted under the name of Shelton-Ward Hardware Co., but on March 13, 1912, the company was incorporated under its present name–the Shelton-Riggs Hardware Company.
Handling a stock which for comprehensiveness and quality cannot be excelled by any house of a similar nature, this well known enterprise has enjoyed a large and growing patronage from the date of its inception. The business is housed in modern quarters on the northeast corner of Court Square. The main sales room is 50×100 feet in floor dimensions and they also have two warehouses at the rear of this building which have a combined area of 50×140 feet. A large yard is also used for the storage of implements and other heavy goods.
They are extensive dealers in staple and heavy hardware, builders’ hardware, farm implements and tools, buggies, harness, wagons, stoves, ranges, household necessities, sporting goods, crockery, tinware, glassware, etc.
The immense stock carried by this concern represents the best obtainable, and their prices will compare favorable with those of the largest concerns of a similar nature in the great trade centers of the country.
W. F. Shelton, president, Lee Shelton, vice-president and A. Riggs, secretary and manager, compose the officers of the company. These gentlemen are numbered among the representative financial citizens and business men of Dunklin County who stand justly high in all circles, and have contributed liberally toward the development of this prosperous section of the state.