An Inside Look at the Garrett Ace Hardware Exhibit

Celebrating over a Century of Hardware History

Garrett Ace Hardware is thrilled to announce an ongoing special exhibit in collaboration with the Healdsburg Museum & Historical Society (HM&HS) to commemorate its 135th anniversary. This captivating showcase, running until the end of the month, takes visitors on a journey through time, exploring the evolution of this beloved local business.

A display celebrating the 135th anniversary of Garrett Hardware, an Ace Hardware store established in 1889. The display includes a black sign with the store name and logo, historical photographs, and a description of the store’s history.
A detailed model of the historic storefront, featuring A.W. Garrett Hardware, a Bakery, and E.B. Deakin’s store. The model includes a vintage car parked in front and a sidewalk.

A Cornerstone of Healdsburg

Founded in 1888 as Cook & Garrett, the store has been an integral part of the Healdsburg community for over a century. Specializing in plumbing and tinning initially, the business expanded to offer a diverse range of products. Today, Garrett Ace Hardware boasts multiple departments, making it a one-stop shop for both homeowners and professionals.

Albert Walker “A.W.” Garrett took the reins after his partner’s retirement and continued to steer the business. Under his leadership, the store grew steadily, establishing itself as a trusted name in the community. Subsequent owners continued to build upon this legacy, with Carole Mascherini acquiring the business in the 1980s. Today, her son, Rod Matteri, carries on the tradition alongside a dedicated team.

A Generational Legacy and Community Commitment

Carole Mascherini’s journey as a female pioneer in the male-dominated hardware industry is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit. Her leadership saw the expansion of the Healdsburg store and the opening of a second location in Windsor, Ca in the 1990s. Garrett Ace Hardware has always been more than just a business; it’s a cornerstone of the community. The store supports local charities, employs high school students, and awards scholarships, fostering a strong connection with the people it serves.

Current owners of Garrett Ace Hardware, Carole Mascherini and Rod Matteri. Employees of The Garrett Ace Hardware, pose in front of their storefront, showcasing the people behind the business.
The owner of The Garrett Ace Hardware, Carole Mascherini and her granddaughter, Jordan in a photo. Along side the photo is a brown paper shopping bag from Ace Hardware with the Ace logo on it. There are a few keys next to the bag on a shelf.
A display showcasing vintage hardware advertisements, tools, and ephemera. There are two advertisements hanging on the wall, one for A.W. Garrett and the other for Garrett Hardware. Below, there is a yellow booklet titled "The Farmer’s Almanac," a pair of vintage scissors, a pencil, and a small alarm clock.
A framed black and white photograph of Cook & Garrett’s hardware store from the late 19th century. Below the photo, there is a framed document and a glass jar filled with antique nails.

Unveiling the Past

The exhibit at the Healdsburg Museum & Historical Society offers a fascinating glimpse into the store’s rich history. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a collection of primary documents, including letters between the original partners, Frank E. Cook and A.W. Garrett, rare photographs of the early store, and vintage advertisements from the Healdsburg Tribune that show the visual timeline of the business’s evolution.

A highlight of the exhibit is a curated selection of artifacts from the A.W. Garrett era, offering a tangible connection to the past. These treasures, combined with informative displays, paint a vivid picture of the store’s humble beginnings and its subsequent growth.

Step Back in Time to further immerse visitors in the history of Garrett Ace Hardware. The exhibit showcases a replica of the original A.W. Garrett store, along with recreations of its neighboring businesses. This detailed reconstruction offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant downtown atmosphere. It’s a captivating addition to the anniversary celebration and a must-see for history enthusiasts.

And that’s just the beginning! The exhibit is packed with even more treasures, from old tools and equipment, to letters and pictures from the Garrett family. There’s something for everyone to discover.

Supporting Local History

To mark this milestone anniversary, Garrett Ace Hardware is encouraging customers to round up their purchases to donate to the HM&HS. This generous initiative helps support the museum’s vital work in preserving Healdsburg’s heritage for future generations.

A vintage Garrett Ace Hardware green truck parked on the lawn in front of the Healdsburg Museum & Historical Society.
A large "Garrett Ace Hardware Est. 1889" sign in front of the store building.

Supporting Sonoma County’s Heritage

By visiting the exhibit, you’re not only experiencing a piece of local history of Healdsburg but also supporting the Healdsburg Museum & Historical Society’s mission to preserve Northern Sonoma County’s heritage for future generations. Garrett Ace Hardware encourages customers to round up their purchases to donate to the museum. By rounding up purchases, customers not only contribute to the preservation of local history but also have the opportunity to give back to the community. This helps to ensure that the stories and artifacts of Healdsburg’s past, continue to be shared and celebrated. So next time you’re at Garrett Ace Hardware, consider rounding up your purchase to support and preserve the history of the HM&HS.

A Lasting Legacy

As the exhibit demonstrates, Garrett Ace Hardware is more than just a hardware store; it’s a living testament to the enduring spirit of Healdsburg.The business’s positive impact on the community, coupled with its dedication to employees and customers, has made it a cherished part of the local landscape.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to step back in time and celebrate the remarkable history of Garrett Ace Hardware. Visit the Healdsburg Museum & Historical Society before the end of the month to experience this captivating exhibit firsthand.