Ellis Ace Hardware

Specialties

Founded in 1872, Ellis Ace Hardware, Rental & RadioShack is Illinois’ Oldest Family Owned Hardware Store. We specialize in all of the core hardware store departments such as plumbing, electrical, hardware, lawn & Garden, and so much more. We pride ourselves on having merchandise you would never expect to find in your local hardware store. Brands like Stihl, Benjamin Moore, RadioShack, Fannie May, Toro, Craftsman and more! We specialize in one-​on-​one personalized service while continuing the legacy our family has created through exceptional customer service and a well lit, clean, stocked store. You would not believe the over 30 departments available in our 18,000 square foot store in the Village of Seneca.

History

Established in 1872.

Founded in 1872, Ellis Ace Hardware, Rental & RadioShack has been family owned and operated for over 135 years. Located in historic Seneca Illinois which is home of the LST Shipyards, and the last standing grain elevator on the I&M Canal. Brothers David & John Ellis are the 4^th generation to run the store with their wives Jenny and Sandra Ellis. David’s son Michael joined the store in 1993 and continues on as the 5^th generation. Joel Wallace Ellis founded the business in downtown Seneca, handling everything from postal service and gasoline to clothing and hardware. He passed the business down on his death to his son Elmer. Elmer died in 1947 and passed the store to his son, Norbert. When Norbert died suddenly in 1953, his wife Frieda Ellis re-​opened the store and continued the business with two small children. Frieda still tells stories of threading pipe by hand and measuring nails by the pound while the customers looked on.