For those new to Prince George or visiting, it may look like just a hardware store from the outside, but it's much more than that.
Northern Hardware and Furniture Co. is like a family to the community, something more than just a store, and is celebrating 100 years today (March 30).
"Today has just blown my expectations with people that have shown up to show their support," President of Northern Hardware and Furniture Kelly Green says. "For today and even the past hundred years. It just reinforces the feeling that we are appreciated and people care."
Green has been in the business since she was 18 years old and has been running the company for the past six years. Her great grandpa started in 1919 after which her grandfather and his brother took it over, and then Green's dad taking it over before passing away six years ago, which Green then took over.
"It was a big responsibility," she says of taking over the role of president. "But I wouldn't change a thing. I used to think coming to work would be extremely hard knowing that I would come without seeing my dad but it's actually where I felt the best."
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Northern Hardware and Furniture Co. has now hit the 100 year mark. (via Jessica Fedigan)Green says the community, as well as her employees, made the transition easier for her and she still feels the same way today, years later.
"I think today just really shows that they still care and they still love us," she says. "And they want us to be here."
She didn't expect the celebrations today (March 30) to be as large as they have but says she's truly grateful for the community coming out to celebrate the milestone with them.
"I don't even think words can explain the feelings that I have," Green says. "It's just blown any expectation I had of today and it's just a wonderful feeling, feeling appreciated and wanted. I think it's really shown here."
As for being around for another 100 years? Time will tell.
"My motto is one day at a time," she says. "Realistically, I think after today, we try everyday to make it work and I really think we'll do our best to be around for sure."
