Duncan-Baker Hardware Co, 306 Public Square, 1920’s

In 1879, Martin L. Baker formed a partnership with John H. Duncan and engaged in the retail hardware and furniture trade. The business of the firm prospered and in the fall of 1903 the business was incorporated under the name of Duncan-Baker Hardware Co., capital stock $30,000.00; a branch store established at Johnston City and a jobbing department added. Duncan was president and Baker served as Secretary and Treasurer of said corporation.

Martin lived at 204 N. Buchanan Street in what must have been a large home since he was able to accommodate several boarders in addition to his own family. Duncan lived at 1004 W. Main St. in an equally large home that was late turned into Chamness Apartments.From 1879 to 1930, the Duncan-Baker Hardware Co. store sat in the North West corner of the square at basically the same place. In the earliest of days it was listed at 304 Public Square and later in the 1920’s at 306 Public Square.

This business appears to have thrived in the early booming economy of Marion’s growth with its housing and business needs, but the death of Martin Baker in 1918 brought change.

In 1922, the directories are still listing the business as a partnership, but shortly after that the partnership and business name changes to Duncan-Spiller-McCarthy Hardware.

The business remained under this name till Duncan reached 72 in 1930 and he retired. After that point, the business faded from existence after thirty three years.

(Data from 1905 Souvenir Book; Census Records; City Directories; Marion City Cemetery Records; photo from the Williamson County Historical Society; compiled by Sam Lattuca on 02/18/2013)