Red Rock On Air

Sam Klemet reports:

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William Sauser walked the streets of Pine City one day in 1909 on his way to have a beer.  On that trip, he laid his eyes on a building that was for sale, and 100 years later, 800 people came out to honor the business that became Sauser’s Hardware.

Sauser’s celebrated its 100th year in Pine City, Friday, with a community celebration in Robbinson Park and at the hardware store.  Everyone has their own personal Sauser’s story or special experience, like Brook Park resident Sylvia Hippen, who says she appreciates the authenticity and history of the store.

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Sauser’s has lived through 16 United States Presidents, two World Wars, and economic ups and downs.  The most recent struggle is the recession, but owner Mike Sauser says the store is at its best in the face of challenges.

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Mike Sauser has run the family business  for close to 30 years.  The family business has extended from just the Sauser family to the Pine City family.  Five generations have relied on the Pine City hardware store for all types of tools, advice, and even just good conversation.  Sauser’s employee Butch Anderson says the store defines neighborhood business.

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Employee Karen Kozak has worked at Sauser’s off and on since 1977.  She says even after over 30 years, she loves waking up to come to work.

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The boom in popularity of large chain stores has threatened the existence of small businesses like Sauser’s.  Mike Sauser says his store has something the bigger stores can’t offer, a close personal relationship with its customers.

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It started with a walk for a beer and a vision, but now Sauser’s is a pillar of the Pine City community, and likely will be for the next 100 years, as well.