inspired Spotlight: Tomkins Hardware & Lumber
Photos Courtesy of Creede Historical Society
Tomkins Hardware is the only original and oldest business in Creede, Colorado. This year is the 125th anniversary for the business. As pictures reflect, the building was built in 1892 and was considered the “first fire proof building in Creede”. The building was constructed by the Tomkins brothers and opened as “Tomkins Brothers Bank and Tomkins Brothers Hardware”. The bank was sold in the 1900’s (not sure what year), however the original bank teller cages and safe still adorn the front south portion of the building, which is now used as offices. The original safe is still used and is locked with the same combination dial as it was 125 years ago. The painter painted the name on the safe and misspelled it by adding the letter “P” (Tompkins). The Tomkins business has long since passed out of the Tomkins family but the name has always remained the same. The title “Lumber” was added to the name in the late 1900’s and, since then, it has been known as Tomkins Hardware and Lumber. The business of hardware and lumber remains the constant, and we are dedicated to providing our small town with personal service, building expertise and the material needed for the home and all building projects, including landscaping and yard maintenance. The store is loaded with items for the bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and all rooms for
both residential and commercial buildings. Along with a full line of interior and exterior stains and paints, we can provide all material needed to build, and to maintain as well. Expert personnel can work up and provide estimates for any building need and help you pick the right color needed to satisfy the needs of any of your projects. t
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