Hometown Hardware Store Is So Much More

Farmers Hardware has stood proudly on the north side of the town square for over 179 years watching history march past. The original building has been a hardware store since its inception but the additional buildings that have subsequently become part of the business have housed things such as funeral parlors, switchboards and a dance studio. Farmers came into the lineage of Allen & Audrey Sanders when they formed a partnership with Mr. Buck Hamner and Mr. Farley in 1947.  In 1951 it became the sole property of Mr. & Mrs. Sanders and has remained in the family since. Their son, John, tells of wagon wheels and mule harnesses still hanging on the walls, telling tales of days gone by. When we picture a hardware store in the current time, we picture hammers, paint and screws. It’s easy to forget that the items used to forge our county required much of the men and women who used them. John showed me bullets found within the store with paper casings. Technology and safety have come a long way, yet the integrity that built Farmers remains the same.

The original building that housed Farmers is still in use today but has expanded 3 times its original space. The first two buildings to the west were most recently a general store and a grocery store. Each building now houses an amazing selection of furniture, rugs, fabric swatches, candles and other home décor. At one time these buildings housed lawnmowers and appliances, but as the big box stores moved in, Farmers pivoted to offer their customers more things for the home that were in demand. In 1999 Angela Dycus became involved in the venture alongside her dad, her mother, her grandmother and grandfather. This was nothing new for her, though. She’d been involved since before she could see over the counter. When customers came in, the young Angela would guide them to whatever they needed. Though her expertise was questioned occasionally, the customers were quick to learn she was an expert in all things related to Farmers Hardware. Upon joining the daily business, she began looking for a way to provide Fayette County residents with furniture options such as those in Memphis for a comparable price. 25 years later she’s doing just that and doing it well. Around 2012 it was mentioned to her that she should start carrying clothing. She headed to Market that weekend. Initially she put one small rack inside the furniture store. The clothing sold fast. When the next building to the west, a former sewing notions store, came available the Farmers’ team was quick to snap it up. Another doorway between buildings was created and now the store, 4 buildings in size, flowed easily from hammers, nails and plumbing supplies to couches, rugs and ladies’ apparel.

Walking into Farmers is a unique experience. As you push open the antique, solid-wood, double doors the original wood flooring squeaks and groans to announce your arrival. A hearty hello is hollered from somewhere within the depths of the tools, cast iron and hardware supplies. It could be a local teenager working the counter or a seasoned Somerville resident, but either way you’re in good hands. As you cross into the next building the room becomes bright and filled with furniture. You are sure to find the latest trends in quality home furnishings at an affordable price. You’ll find more of the same in the third building, which has an original pressed tin ceiling that was put in after electricity came to Somerville.  By this point you will probably have your eye on a piece or two, but just in case you haven’t found exactly what you are looking for, don’t worry. John and Angela have remodeled the upstairs into a magazine worthy show room filled with popular furniture choices. Back downstairs in the 4^th building you will find the latest in women’s fashion apparel. You can find trendy tops, slimming bottoms, dresses for every occasion and jewelry to compliment whatever your purchase.  Men, take note, the lady in your life would love a little something special from this section of the store. Farmers has all the bases covered for your home.

My favorite part of writing these articles is talking with the owners about why they do what they do. As each interview has come about, I’ve seen firsthand the dedication the owners have to their community. John and Angela are no different. Angela’s son, Ian has recently joined the team in the summer months. 4 generations have had the honor of serving their community and they assure me that’s their favorite part. When I asked Angela why her family chooses to own Farmers, her face lit up as she replied, “What else would we do?!” She went on to say, “We enjoy the people we get to serve and are thankful for our loyal customers.” Her family’s desire is to bring more to the community; whatever it is that is needed. Another great example of a selfless business supporting our community and why you should always shop local and shop Fayette first!

~Written By Karri Buck~