CASE: RTS reader Bill Keesler of Mount Jewett dropped us a note about an experience he had in Arkansas regarding Case knives.
Bill told us he and his wife, Patty, were helping their son move to Mena, Ark., in July.
“While setting up his house it became evident that I needed several hardware related items. As I drove through downtown Mena (a town of about 5,000) I came upon 813 Mena Street, the site of Coast to Coast Home and Hardware,” he wrote.
“As I walked through the open front door it was evident the store had just about anything one could possibly need and more. At first, I didn’t think anyone was working there but as I neared the center of the store I came upon a small counter with a lone cash register perched on top. As I approached the counter a very tall, gray-haired man emerged from behind the register and offered his assistance.
“As I was searching for a topic of conversation to break the ice I happened to look down and saw dozens of old Case Knives displayed on the glass shelves under the counter. I immediately remarked on the knives and explained to the proprietor that I was not only from Pennsylvania, but I lived 20 miles from the Case Knife factory and Zippo Manufacturing.
“He smiled and directed my attention to the other side of the counter where he pointed out a large wooden display case filled with Case knives. He told me this was an original Case display with all of the original knives still firmly secured in the case. I asked him if I could take a picture of the case and he obliged. He stated that he would sell me the Case display, knives included for a mere $10,000 dollars.
“I informed him that I would need to consult with my friends at the Hamlin Bank and Trust Company and my wife before making such a purchase,” Bill wrote. “He chuckled and then proceeded to enlighten me about his collection of knives and the history of the hardware. Approximately 45 minutes later and more knowledgeable than when I arrived, I left with my small bag of nuts, bolts, and picture hanging hardware.”
Bill advised, “So, if you are a Case enthusiast and happen to be traveling through Mena, Arkansas, take a moment to stop and visit with Mr. Abbott at the Coast to Coast Home and Hardware.”
Sounds a bit like Bradford to us.
