Rotary Club was pleased to host Sarah Wagner and her fiancee, Jesse Faulder, at our October 27, 2025 meeting at A&W West End Grill.

Wagner Hardware, a century-old family business with roots dating back to 1913, has officially reopened its doors following several months of extensive renovations and updates. The grand opening, held May 8, carried special meaning for the family—it fell on the birthday of Wilbur Wagner, great-grandfather of current manager Sarah Wagner.

Wagner Hardware began in Ulysses before relocating to Coudersport and has remained in the Wagner family for generations. The store was previously operated for a time by Jenny and Chris Tilton, but leadership shifted in recent years as Sarah Wagner returned to the region. Wagner moved from California to Potter County two years ago and now co-manages the business with her fiancé, Jesse Faulder.

Faulder, who oversees the store’s IT operations, has led a focused effort to improve the store’s profit-per-square-foot by rethinking the layout and flow of the space. Significant structural changes were made, including moving a wall, removing an interior staircase, replacing the flooring, and upgrading electrical fixtures. The second floor now features a new employee break room.

Despite the updates, Wagner Hardware remains proudly independent and locally owned—not part of any chain. Its three largest departments continue to be paint, plumbing, and electrical. The management team also plans to increase availability of essential emergency items such as sump pumps and toilet repair components.

The store no longer carries Craftsman tools but now offers Channel Lock products, which feature lifetime warranties. In addition, Wagner Hardware will soon expand into appliance sales and installations, bringing a new service option to the area.

Longtime customers will notice that store accounts are still active and all rewards points have been successfully transferred. The business has also transitioned to a new supplier, DoItBest—the same cooperative used by Close’s Lumber. As a member-focused co-op, DoItBest supports independent retailers and allows store owners the freedom to manage their own advertising and operations.

Family ties remain strong at the shop. Even at age 83, Ralph Wagner still makes the drive from Wellsville to lend a hand.

With its renovated space, expanded services, and continued commitment to community, Wagner Hardware begins its next chapter firmly rooted in the legacy of the family that started it more than 110 years ago.

Thank you for presenting Wagner Hardware, a community gem, to our Club!