Duke's Ace Hardware

Back in 1947 on April 7th after several years in the army W.A. Gniadek or "Duke" as he is known to his multitude of friends, made his home in this area and organized his original hardware store in a two car garage at 5642 W. 87th St. Duke and his wife worked together for more than two years and then moved into a larger building at 5634 W. 87th Street, where they worked five more years before purchasing the property alongside. They worked long hours even staying open late on Sunday. Duke became known for his ready smile and ability to help others with their problems. The store grew and prospered until that fateful day March 12th 1965 when fire destroyed the entire structure with everything it contained. It was a rough blow but to a man like Duke, this was overcome in time. Trailers were stocked and Duke's continued on until the new building was erected. Today Al and Doug Gniadek continue the family business and operate two Duke's Ace Hardware locations in the Chicagoland area.