Abrachinky’s Hardware Store is one, if not the oldest business in Shenandoah, PA. This family-owned and operated business is a perfect example of hard work, dedication, and The American Dream.
Owner, Paul (Chopper) Abrachinsky explained that in the mid1800’s his great grandparents bravely journeyed from Lithuania to Shenandoah to build a better life and future for their family. He still has documentation from all those years ago that records the multiple ports they traveled through to reach the United States.
“My grandparents were entrepreneurs at heart, said Chopper. “At one time the family had a grocery store, too.” But it was the hardware store that remained in the family and continues to serve the community at the exact location today. Throughout time, the store has kept up with the marketing trends, changing the product mix to meet the community’s needs.
They’ve carried appliances, coal buckets, clotheslines, tools, toys, and trains. They’ve carried dog licenses, hunting licenses, camping equipment, sports equipment, cookware, and more. The list goes on and on and on! In the 1950’s they were known as Toyland and one advertisement stated you could find more than 275,000 items at Abrachinsky’s. Their popular motto that is still true today is, “If we don’t have it, they don’t make it!” Even throughout the pandemic, they served customers by offering front door ordering and pick up. “Customers walk up to the front door just to say, hello,” said Chopper.
Chopper’s children Nikki and Paul (Abby) grew up working in the store. Abby helped his grandfather build and stock shelves and then with his dad Chopper and sister Nikki serving customers. Today, Nikki continues the tradition and is the next generation of Abrachinksy’s to carry on this more than 121-year legacy.
“Besides being born and raised in Shenandoah, I wanted to make my grandparents, George and Lillian proud by keeping the family business going as long as possible,” said Nikki Abrachinsky. “After all, their parents made it through the Great Depression.”
She explained there are multiple reasons she decided to carry on the family business, but it’s her customers, and the stories they tell about the store that make it extra special. “I want to thank each and everyone for being so loyal throughout the years,” she said. “I enjoy hearing all the stories our customers share about shopping here with their parents. “I will always be Shenandoah proud!”
Abrachinksy’s Hardware was selected as the 2021 Parade of Nations Grand Marshal that was recently held during the Kielbasi Festival/Heritage Day celebration on August 21. Shenandoah Mayor, Andrew Szczyglak made a special proclamation designating the day as Abrachinsky Family Day in the borough. The county commissioners, Representative Tim Twardzik and Senator Argall also congratulated the family for their dedication to the community. “We are honored, said Chopper. “Thank you to everyone who came out and celebrated this special day with us.”
