Operating in Washington Square for over 35 years, Connelly Hardware was originally owned by the Carlow family. On Sept 21, 1951, John and Irene Connelly bought Carlow Hardware and it became Connelly Hardware.
In the early to mid-1950's the State of Massachusetts started building the Mass Pike; Connelly Hardware had a large new customer and with that, needed to expand the footprint of the space to what it now occupies.
In the 1960's, I wasn't allowed to work at the store because Mom felt it wasn't a proper place for a young girl. Imagine! My first job was as a stockgirl at Best & Co., a department store in Brookline. Finally by the mid-80's, I was allowed to work in the store! My parents would go on vacations to Florida every year and were short-staffed, so I volunteered to drive in from Hopkinton to help out. As it turned out, I had a great time working and learning with Dad, and loved the business.
I have many blessings to be thankful for at Connelly's - my wonderful parents, John and Irene, and an incredibly talented and loyal staff. We have lots of former customers who have moved away and just stop in to see if Mom and Dad are around, and if a Connelly still owns the store. I have to tell them that Mom and Dad have passed away, but yes, a Connelly still owns the store.
Connelly Hardware
Kathy Connelly Kenney
706 Washington Street
Brookline, MA
02445
617-277-7349
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