Liesemer Home Hardware celebrates 150th anniversary

Mildmay, ON-based Liesemer Home Hardware is celebrating its 150th anniversary. Founded in 1873 by Conrad Liesemer, the hardware store has been family-owned and operated for five generations. It was originally named Liesemer Hardware and joined the Home Hardware banner in 1964. Jared Liesemer, store manager, joined the family business at the age of 14, working part-time after school and in the summer. He’s been with the company for 10 years and has every intention of keeping the family legacy going when his father Pete Liesemer, the current dealer-owner, is ready to retire. “As a child, there was never any pressure to take over the business, but as my dad always says, ‘hardware is in our blood’,” says Jared. “With Dad as my mentor, I knew I had the right role model to help me on my path to success. He has been a dream to work with, and he plans on staying until his 50-year anniversary of working in the hardware business.” While the store is still in its original location, over the years it has gone through changes including heavy remerchandising and rebuilding. The store is hosting an anniversary celebration from June 15 to 17, with an anniversary sale and celebration featuring special promotions, cake, barbeque brisket, and refreshments.