Matirko Hardware Co

In July of 1973, Bob and Chris Matirko fulfilled a lifelong dream by opening up their Matirko Hardware business on a quiet stretch of Route 940 in Pocono Lake. That stretch wasn't quiet for long, as Tobyhanna Township tripled in population, and Tunkhannock Township, just south, has increased almost fourfold. The Matirko business grew along with the community. Bob, who had been the computer division supervisor for Exxon in Florham Florham ParkNJ, left his job there to be a full-timer here, in a place he truly loved. He and Chris raised a family around the business. When Bob passed away, Chris continued managing and growing the business. Now their daughter Karen is getting ready to take over the store in the not too distant future. Afternoon and summer customers are also familiar with generation number three as Michael and Theresa help customers and stock shelves. More than thirty-five years have come and gone. Shown here is the store, as it looked back in 1973, and as it looks today. All your hardware needs, from grass seed for your lawn, paint for your home, cookware for your grill or kitchen, and chemicals for your hot tub. "Americana" items like Grandma's Lye Soap, galvanized wash boards, meat smoker grills, and cast iron cookware.