Meet The Owners
Our Story
In the heart of Mathiston, Mississippi, a century-old hardware store was on the verge of fading into history. Oswalt Building Supply, formerly N.S. Ellis and Sons founded in 1917, had long been a cornerstone of the community, proudly serving generations of residents in a location built in 1910. However, in recent years, the store faced challenges that threatened its legacy, one deeply intertwined with the Ellis and Oswalt family, who had owned it for over a hundred years.
Meet Brad Huffman and Ted Dewett, two great friends and business partners who saw potential to continue the legacy of this hardware story that meant so much to the community. With a shared passion for community and a deep appreciation for the store’s history, they embarked on a mission to revitalize the store as Mathiston Hardware and breathe new life into its walls.
With the support of RCLF's SSBCI program, Brad and Ted secured the funding they needed to kickstart their revitalization plans. But financial backing was just one piece of the puzzle. RCLF, not only provided the funding but also invaluable business resources and coaching. RCLF’s mission is to empower aspiring business owners like Brad and Ted.
With funding in hand and guidance from RCLF, Brad and Ted rolled up their sleeves. They transformed the store's interior, modernizing the layout while preserving its historic charm. They stocked shelves with quality tools, paints, and building supplies, ensuring that Mathiston Hardware would be a go-to destination for contractors and homeowners alike. Mathiston Hardware aims to be a place where locals can gather, share their projects, and connect with one another—helping to foster the sense of community that has always defined the store.
Brad reflected on the journey, saying, “It’s an honor to keep the tradition of Mathiston Hardware alive, even though we aren’t part of the Ellis and Oswalt family. We want to ensure that this place continues to be a hub for creativity and support.”
As the revitalization took shape, the community rallied behind their efforts. Local residents began to view Mathiston Hardware not just as a store, but as a gathering place where they could share their love for DIY projects and craftsmanship. The store's revival sparked a renewed sense of pride among the town of Mathiston, who saw their history preserved and their future brightened.
Thanks to the partnership with SSBCI, RCLF was able to bring the dream of Mathiston Hardware to life. The story of this beloved hardware store reminds us that with the right support, passion, and community spirit, dreams of business ownership and growth can be possible.