Central Hardware was founded in 1943 by John Edward Harris, a partner of the Dryden Lumber Company, at 29 King Street in downtown Dryden. Specializing in lumber and hardware sales, the business transferred ownership in 1947 after Mr. Harris fell ill. The manager (William Clarkson) and other business partners split the company into Central Hardware and the "New Dryden Lumber Co." which was sold off.

Our co-founder's great-grandfather, Mr. William Clarkson, then operated Central Hardware until he sold it to his son, Wayne, 24 years later. Wayne Clarkson renamed it Central Hardware and Automotive, and slowly transitioned it into an auto parts store which was sold in 1992 to TJ's Auto Value.

The building, originally known as the Smith Building, has stood since 1911. This makes it one of Dryden's oldest buildings at 114 years old, with Central Hardware operating there for about 50 of those years.

With deep family ties to the business through our founders great-grandfather (William Clarkson) and grandfather (Wayne Clarkson), and a rich local history, we decided to honor the legacy of the company that served the Dryden area for many years. We're incorporating their name and branding into the upcoming hardware sales wing of The Lakeview Group. Our goal is to serve the community just as well and for as long, providing Dryden with diverse materials at better prices, all while putting the customer first.