The Adirondacks’ “Most General Store.”

Adirondack store Old Forge Hardware — Photos courtesy: Old Forge Hardware

Located right in downtown Old Forge, Old Forge Hardware has earned a charming reputation as the Adirondacks’ quintessential general store.

Founded by Moses Cohen around 1900, it’s been serving the community and tourists for well over a century. Today, this sprawling emporium stocks everything from essential hardware to local souvenirs, creating a unique shopping canvas for adventurers, residents, and gift seekers alike.

A storied history (with a dash of drama).

The roots of Old Forge Hardware date back to the arrival of Moses Cohen, an itinerant hardware peddler, around 1900. His vision? A store that met practical needs and nourished community spirit.

In the 1920s, a devastating fire consumed the original building, leaving embers to linger for days. Remarkably, core components were salvaged, prompting the store’s rebirth shortly thereafter.

In the 1930s, Moses’s son, A. Richard Cohen began managing and expanding the business, contracting lots to enlarge the shop frontage. By mid‑century, Cohen’s efforts had sculpted a single‑stop store unlike any other in the region — a blend of old‑world general store charm and Adirondack practicality.

One-stop shop with deep local roots and personalized service.

Visitors laud Old Forge Hardware’s extensive selection, which includes hardware, camping gear, cookware, books, snow-day essentials, clothing, yarn, home décor, and even Swiss Army knives. Fans love it for its “One‑Stop” shopping experience.

One review calls Old Forge Hardware “huge … anything you could possibly think of” (Tripadvisor). It’s not uncommon to pick up a wrench, a postcard and a winter hat — all in one trip.

Another distinguishing aspect is that Old Forge Hardware is not a chain store: it’s a local institution. It has “served generations of locals … and visitors” for over 100 years. That sentiment shows through in the store’s authentic Adirondack vibe: friendly greetings, hands‑on help, and surprising advice on everything under the sun—from canoe repair to cooking utensils.

Old Forge original lines of sauces and marinades.

From its earliest days, Old Forge Hardware has built its legacy on personalized attention. In modern times, shoppers still mention “fast and courteous service” and freebie stickers or tote bags as highlights. The staff knows many names — and never hesitates to help you find that one odd‑sized screw or specialty cookpot.

Discover what’s inside Old Forge Hardware.

Here’s an overview of what you can expect to find at Old Forge Hardware, but we promise there’s more to be discovered.

Hardware and Tools: Trusty basics — nuts, bolts, adhesives, plumbing, electrical, wrenches and garden tools—ideally for cabin upkeep or campsite emergencies.
Outdoor and Camping Gear: Lanterns, lifejackets, bait, snow‑day essentials, and more. One review cites spending “a few hundred bucks on camping supplies.”
Kitchen and Cookware: Bakeware, cookware, kitchen gadgets, lodge pans, grilling gear—great for cabin cooks.
Books and Local Finds: Regional guidebooks, Adirondack postcards (like a vintage “Postcard History” series) (Amazon).
Apparel and Cozy Goods: Hats, gloves, socks, yarn and crafts—everything you might need for a chilly morning by the lake.
Gifts and Souvenirs: Snowglobe‑worthy keepsakes, local foods like jams, ornaments, and Swiss Army knives—perfect for thoughtful gifts.

In the grand scheme: a local gem.

Despite its old-time appearance, quality remains front and center at Old Forge Hardware.. Customers praise "great stuff," describing items as solid, reliable, and often surprisingly affordable.

A loyal visitor said: “They have everything you could think of, plus a lot that you won’t find anywhere else, including things from your childhood …”

Fireworks over Old Forge Hardware — Visiting Old Forge Hardware is always a blast.

Old Forge Hardware isn’t just a store—it’s woven into the fabric of Old Forge’s past and present. Visitors to the nearby canoe trails along the Fulton Chain of Lakes always pass through, and residents rely on it for everything from hardware to holiday cheer.

Its century-long presence has weathered fire, economic shifts, tourism trends—and persists as a lively hub of community culture and convenience.

For more information, visit Old Forge Hardware’s website.