Founded as a livery stable way back in 1898 by Thomas J. Mitchell, it specialized in selling horses, mules, wagons, and harnesses. Then, as now, it had the reputation of the place to find those “hard to find” items. As time passed, the Mitchell Business became a general hardware store. From that time until the present, it has met the needs of people in New Bern and Craven County for hardware items and much more. And now, thanks to the Internet, Mitchell’s is accessible to the world!
The Taltons decided to keep the Mitchell name; and all of the good memories the name evoked. “Buzz” is still fondly remembered by many for his uncanny ability to locate every item in his
crowded store and for his ever-present cigar. Much of his stock was stored in his cigar boxes. Today’s owner and manager, Greg Smith and the Mitchell staff, still provide the same convenience and service to Mitchell’s customers that they have expected and received for over a hundred years. They've even saved a few cigar boxes.
Finding the tiny rented store a little small and overcrowded by the large inventory, the family was pleased when a 1912 building became available across the street. They purchased and remodeled it to meet the needs of a modern hardware store, but sought to preserve the integrity of a genuine turn-of-the-century building, from the pressed tin ceilings to the leaded glass across the front. The move in 1988 was a busy time for all at Mitchell’s. With the help of friends, and valued customers who pitched in, the store never closed its doors.
Today, the friendly staff at Mitchell Hardware thinks you will like what you find in this unique store: from the old to the new in hardware items, boating supplies, a full line of cast iron cookware, traditional pottery, enamel ware, accessories for bird watchers, and much, much more.
There’s plenty of free parking on the street, as well as lots adjacent to the store. With so much to see, you may need to spend a little extra time “just taking it all in”. Hope to see you soon!