Couple retiring after 20 years at hardware store

By SHEILA G. KELLEY

News editor

Peabody Hardware and Lumber has anchored downtown Peabody for the past 20 years under the ownership of Mark and Ginger Whitney.

It’s now a time for change.

The Whitney’s last day of operation will be May 31 when they retire.

A hardware store has been in the building since 1879 and Mark says he hopes someone will want to carry on the tradition.

“We’re hoping someone will want to buy it and keep it open,” he said.

Mark says he plans to continue with woodworking repair and restoration and building custom items.

“We are very thankful to the community for all they have done,” he said. “We’re looking forward to more years doing something different.”