Gordon’s True Value, Fireplace store now together in one building

November 20, 2022 | 12:10 am

Updated November 19, 2022 | 11:36 pm

Gordon’s True Value and Gordon’s Fireplace and Patio Center have merged into one building, located at 321 Washington Avenue across from Old Hickory Bar-B-Q. 

The hardware store was located on Booth Avenue for 30 years before moving to Washington Avenue in 2018. The fireplace and patio store had been located on Frederica Street for 25 years, but third-generation owner Scott Gordon said housing the two operations in the same building worked best for the local business. 

Scott’s grandfather Buddy Gordon developed the idea for the two stores but passed away before the groundbreaking in 1981. Buddy’s son Lee became vice president of the business and established the Philpot location, Gordon’s Farm and True Value, in August of 1982 and ran it for 40 years. Scott Gordon primarily manages the Philpot location while David Stone manages the Owensboro hardware store – and has for over 10 years.

“I don’t know how I got that lucky,” Gordon said of the employees at the two stores. “They are really one-on-one with customers and teach them about the products.”

Items in the hardware store include housewares, lawn and garden needs, a full display of knives and a good assortment of basic needs, according to Gordon. 

“Our inventory has grown by listening to our customers and by expanding departments and products by trying to give the consumer something different and unique but useful,” Gordon said.  “We’re always listening to what our customers are asking for. Naturally, we can’t get everything, but do try.”

The hardware store also carries Bittel Heritage Meats, a local pork company that also spans three generations. 

But, Gordon said, the store might be most well-known for the two “huge” cats that live at the store and that customers come to visit and bring treats.

“Their names are True and Value, but most call them the spinster sisters,” he said. 

The fireplace and patio store will sell the same quality products, including Big Green Eggs, gas grills and gas logs, which is what they are most known for. In the summer, they add more stock to their patio furniture selections.

Gordon said he relies on the employees of the Owensboro location to hold him accountable for working toward the same goal and that they are the backbone of the business.

“We have lasted through the loyalty of our customers,” Gordon said. “I think our one-on-one style with most anyone who walks in defines who we are.” 

He also prides Gordon’s employment with hiring teenagers.

“I like for our young ones to use us as a building block in their lives moving forward,” he said. “Teaching work ethic and pride – it goes a long way.”

Gordon does not plan to leave the community of local businesses anytime soon.

“I see us here as long as we’re needed or feel needed,” he said. “It’s stressful but also fun when things are flowing the right way. Covid definitely taught us how to be more flexible and taught us how to fight supply and demand more tactfully. A lot of people tell me they are glad we are here. That means a lot in the end, I want to thank our customers for their loyalty and relationships.”

Gordon’s True Value and Fireplace and Patio Center will host a grand opening at their new location on Black Friday and Small Business Sunday.

November 20, 2022 | 12:10 am

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