Assembly Resolution No. 1254

BY: M. of A. Crouch

COMMENDING Horton Hardware upon the occasion of
its designation as Business of the Year by the
Greater Afton Area Chamber of Commerce on June 3,
2018

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize the
achievements of those individuals and businesses that contribute
substantially to the economic vitality of their communities, thereby
enhancing economic well-being of the entire Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Horton Hardware upon the occasion of its designation as Business
of the Year by the Greater Afton Area Chamber of Commerce, to be
celebrated at its Annual Reception on Sunday, June 3, 2018, at The Silo
Restaurant, Coventry, New York; and

WHEREAS, In April of 2018, Horton Hardware celebrated its 110th
Anniversary of selling hardware at 198 Main Street in Afton; with two
families through five generations, they have enjoyed a long and
interesting history; and

WHEREAS, Construction of Horton Hardware began in 1905 by Clark
Horton, a Coventryville teacher and farmer who owned a farm implement
store on nearby Commercial Street; his son Harrison, known as Harry,
soon joined him in the endeavor; and

WHEREAS, The grand opening of the store was held on April 28, 1906,
to much local celebration and fanfare; the original building, which
still stands today, had the only elevator between Albany and Binghamton;
and

WHEREAS, Another local farmer, Charlie Gaydorus, purchased "The Big
Hardware" as it was known, from Harry's widow Pearl Horton in 1959; the
two story addition facing Commercial Street was completed in 1970,
creating an appliance showroom; and

WHEREAS, In 1986, the addition on Main Street was completed, with
Charlie Gaydorus' sons Alan and Steve joining the business; the final
addition was built on Commercial Street in 1994, to expand the small
engine repair shop and tool rental business; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, over the years new products were added such as
bedding, kitchens and baths, Carhartt clothing and Carolina Boots; and

WHEREAS, As barrels of nails and wringer washing machines gave way
to laser levels and computerized paint matching, some things have
remained constant at Horton Hardware, helpful competent employees and
loyal customers; and

WHEREAS, It is with great pleasure that this Legislative Body
acknowledges Horton Hardware's success, recognizes its contributions to
the local and State economies, and extends its highest commendation to

the corporation and its employees, fully confident that, in its future,
it will enjoy the same success which has so characterized its past; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Horton Hardware upon the occasion of its designation as Business
of the Year by the Greater Afton Area Chamber of Commerce on June 3,
2018; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Horton Hardware, Afton, New York.