About
Before you dismiss visiting Harrison Brothers Hardware because you picture rows and rows of electrical, garden, and paint supplies, hear us out.
James B. and Daniel T. Harrison opened this esteemed establishment in 1879 as a modest tobacco shop. By 1897, it had moved to its current location on Southside Square in downtown Huntsville. After a devastating fire in 1901, it was renovated, expanded, and transformed into a hardware store by 1902.
"Wait, I thought you said this wasn't a hardware store?" Patience. It will all make sense shortly!
The Harrison brothers had a knack for evolving with the times. While they initially sold crockery, jewelry, furniture, and appliances, their focus shifted to everyday hardware and practical goods. The business remained family-owned for over a century until 1983, when the last family member passed.
Fortunately, the Historic Huntsville Foundation stepped in to preserve this landmark and its legacy.
Visiting the shotgun-style store is like entering a museum. You'll marvel at the hand-carved display shelves, wood plank floors, and a functioning 1907 National Cash Register. While not for sale, you find Harrison family items like a business desk, a coal stove, and an antique safe.
It's more than a museum; it's also a store. Gone are the bins of nails, kitchen necessities, and car parts. Instead, the weathered shelves and display cases are stocked with American-made goods. The store is jam-packed with housewares and edibles, seasonal gifts, artisan goods, and contemporary and vintage toys.
The west wing is an art gallery, while the second floor features rentable spaces for community events and non-profit meetings.
Best of all, your purchase supports preservation efforts and community projects led by the Historic Huntsville Foundation.
Now that you know all the facts, and understand that it's more than a hardware store, you'll want to add Harrison Brothers Hardware to your Huntsville to-do list.
Harrison Brothers Hardware: Fun Facts & Cool Features
One unique feature is the original, working 1907 National Cash Register mentioned above. This beautifully preserved piece of history demonstrates the attention to authenticity maintained at the store. Since it's still operational, it adds fuel to the debate that "they don't make them like that anymore!"
The store is a treasure trove of antique fixtures and turn-of-the-century items such as original advertising posters, ledgers, and photographs. All of which offer a glimpse into the store and family's history.
While the hardware goods are gone, the shelves and bins are littered with unique gifts. Discover art crafted by local, regional, and nationally recognized artists and artisans. These include paintings, pottery, hand-blown glass, turned wood, and forged metal.
At Christmas, there's nothing like exploring Harrison Brothers Hardware! From Santa playing carols on a harp to holiday lights and gifts, it's a must during the holidays.
Children of all ages love checking out the toys and vintage playthings. You'll find puzzles, books, stuffed animals, and dolls. The store is your go-to for Ravensburger puzzles and Usborne books. Fans of vintage toys will appreciate the Jack in the Boxes, Spirographs, tea sets, and bins of marbles.
The store's downtown location makes planning a day full of sightseeing easy. For instance, a trip to the Earlyworks Children's Museum and Von Braun Center could be combined with exploring Harrison Brothers. And when famished from "shopping until you drop," delicious food is nearby. Next door is Commerce Kitchen, while 1892 East Restaurant & Tavern is only a short drive away.
Whether exploring Alabama's rich past or picking up a one-of-a-kind present, visiting this historic gem is a must when in Huntsville.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Huntsville to the Harrison Brothers Hardware:
- Start at the intersection of Jefferson Street and Spring Street.
- Head south on Jefferson Street for half a mile.
- Turn left onto Southside Square.
- Drive around the square to find available parking.
- Address: 124 Southside Square, Huntsville, AL 35801.
Local Tips
- Play the free scavenger hunt online and win a small prize!
- The store's original decor is picture-worthy.
- Check its social media posts for sales, samples, and special events.
- Extended hours are during Greene Street Market night (the first Thursday in May to the last Thursday in October).
