Morris Hardware Keeps a Good Thing Going
Shayna Roberts, co-owner of Morris Hardware in McConnelsville, Ohio in front of her store.
Morris Hardware — a Paladin client since 2023 — marked an incredible milestone this past November: 180 years in business. Founded in 1845 by George Morris as a humble tinsmith shop in McConnelsville, Ohio, the store has grown into a community institution that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.
Recently, the store received a well‑deserved spotlight from Orgill Distributing, recognizing the team’s commitment to modernization and service. Part of that modernization was choosing Paladin Data Corporation as its technology provider and Orgill as its supplier in 2023.
Sixth‑generation owner Tom Schanken, alongside partner Shayna Roberts, credits Orgill for helping the store update key departments without compromising the independence and identity that make Morris Hardware special.
A couple of years ago, Shayna and Tom generously shared a testimonial with us, and it’s been inspiring to watch their continued success. We’re proud to support a business that not only honors its legacy but continues to enrich its community every day.
Read more: A Story About Continuing a Legacy.
Advanced math
Hardware Connection revealed a customer service problem a Paladin client recently experienced in its latest edition.
We had a customer come in one day needing a 12-by-10 tarp. Not a 10-by-12. A 12-by-10.
“No problem,” I said, taking him to the aisle and handing him a 10-by-12.
He shook his head. “That won’t work. I need a 12-by-10.”
“If you turn it this way,” I said. Rotating it like a magician revealing a trick, “it’s a 12-by-10.”
He wasn’t buying it. “Nope. A 10-by-12 ain’t going to work.”
He handed it back and left, still searching for the mysterious, mathematically unique 12-by-10 tarp. – Eric Kingsland, BDK Feed & Supply, Blanchester, Ohio
Eric also revealed how 2025 panned out for BDK Feed & Supply. Read more on page 18 of the February Hardware Connection
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