Nichols Hardware in Purcellville is a trip back in time. With its uneven wooden floors, tin ceilings and overflowing shelves, this western Loudoun County icon embodies a period of American history when personal service and word-of-mouth advertising were the keys to retail success.
In many ways, Nichols doesn't look much different from the store that was founded in 1914. To the casual eye, the store may resemble a flea market hodgepodge, similar items gathered together, but with no real rhyme or reason. Every bit of space is used-even the ceiling from which dangles a tricycle and canoe on sturdy chains. Nichols Hardware opened its doors as the E.E. Nichols & Company in 1914. After the death of Ed Nichols and his son Ted Nichols, the store is now run by Ed's brother Ken Nichols.
When we were visiting VA in May I had the opportunity to run some errands with my Dad and Nichols was one of the stops. I just love this place. I love the smells, the familiar faces, and love the memories I have of when I was a child.
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