
Store information
Sat 8:00am - 6:00pm
Sun 8:00am - 6:00pm
Meet Our Staff
About This Store
As a family business with deep traditions, we proudly enter our fifth generation of leadership. Our success as a strong brick-and-mortar store comes from over 120 years of dedication to community and service. Mike and Mary (Whitmore) Cripe, along with their sons Michael and David, continue to grow and evolve. Historically, hardware stores have served as general stores meeting the needs of their communities. With that in mind, we added a modern twist by incorporating trends in fashion, gifts, and home decor leading to the creation of "Water Street"a modern general store named after the location of our first store in Wilmington, established in 1896. Our goal is to offer an inspiring and delightful selection for your home and lifestyle, turning a visit to the hardware store into a memorable family outing.
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Community Outreach
We are collecting gently used prom dresses and accessories in all four Whitmore Ace Hardware Stores during the months of January and February. There will be a prom dress distribution March 10th at Fossil Ridge Library in Braidwood from 9--3. All local students are welcome.