Michigan’s Oldest Operating Hardware Store

I’m sure there may be a few who claim a different hardware store is the oldest in Michigan, but this one is the oldest STILL-OPERATING hardware store in the state.

The State of Michigan has recognized Raymond Hardware in Port Sanilac as the one in question. It has been operating continually since 1850, when it was founded and named after its creator, Uri Raymond. At the time, Port Sanilac was called ‘Bark Shanty Pointe' and it was only a few years later when Raymond moved his hardware store to where it is now: 29 S. Ridge Street.

The Raymond name has remained throughout the centuries. When Uri passed away in 1899, the business was taken over by his son Fred. Fred ran the store for another 32 years until he died in 1931. Then Fred’s son Oli ran the business for 38 years until he was ready to retire in 1969.

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When people discover the store’s historic value, they make it a point to pay a visit....and ask if there are any “Home Of Michigan's Oldest Hardware Store” t-shirts left.

What would any “Michigan’s Oldest” structure be without the legend of some sort of paranormal activity? Some former and current employees - and customers - believe the store is haunted by the spirit of Fred Raymond. My question: how do they know it’s not the ghost of one of the other Raymonds? Like Oli or Uri?

Check out the store on your next Michigan roadtrip...
...and you’ll see why Everybody Loves Raymond’s.