Hardware stores celebrates 60 years

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Steve Akard, of Akard True value Hardware, accepts a plaque in honor of the store’s 60th anniversary from regional retail consultant Jacqueline Banks and Tim Mills, Sr., vice president of growth for True value. (Submitted photo)
Steve Akard, of Akard True value Hardware, accepts a plaque in honor of the store’s 60th anniversary from regional retail consultant Jacqueline Banks and Tim Mills, Sr., vice president of growth for True value. (Submitted photo)

By Mark Ambrogi

Dwight D. Eisenhower was still in his first term as president when Akard True Value Hardware & Just Ask Rentals store opened on Main Street in downtown Zionsville in May 1955.

The store moved to Boone Village in the late 1970s where it remains today. This store, run by Steve Akard and his daughter, Leigh Ann, is celebrating its 60th anniversary all month long. The hardware store was started by Steve’s father, J.J. Akard.

The family’s ties to Zionsville are deep. Steve graduated from Zionsville Community High School. So did Leigh Ann in 1991. Leigh Ann’s youngest son Spencer is graduating from ZCHS in June and her son Anthony graduated two years ago. Her oldest son Stuart attended ZCHS before graduating elsewhere.

“All three boys have worked here at one time and my sister worked here when she was young,” Leigh Ann said. “Many years ago, my mom, Marsha, was in the store every day, too.”

The store underwent a modernized store design and new merchandising layout in 2012. It is known for supporting the community through fundraisers and other events.

“We’re always trying to find out different ways to give back to the community,” said Leigh Ann, who is an active Lions Club member and former Lions Club president. “[The Lions Club] started a junior club for the Lions called Leos and we have four Leos who work in the store right now, which is cool.”

To celebrate 60 years, the store is providing a free rod iron hanging plant worth $15 to anyone who makes a plant purchase of $60 or more in May while supplies last.

The store will also host the Humane Society from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 23. Volunteers from the Humane Society will bring some animals with hopes of finding them homes. At the same time, the store will celebrate its 60th anniversary and Memorial Day sale with refreshments.

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