LA CROSSE, Wis. — Kroner Hardware, a cornerstone of downtown La Crosse since just after the Civil War, is preparing to turn the page on its remarkable family legacy.
Founded around 1868 by German immigrant Adam Kroner, the store has operated on the 300 block of Pearl Street for more than 150 years. At the urging of his brother Fred, who owned a hardware store of his own, Adam arrived in La Crosse with a vision and a toolkit, ready to build both business and community.
From its earliest days supplying settlers with essentials, Kroner Hardware has been handed down through five generations of the Kroner family. Adam’s sons Edgar and William kept the store going through the Great Depression. After serving in World War II, Edgar’s sons, also named Edgar and James, returned to take over the business. Eventually, the reins were passed to William “Bill” Kroner, who still runs the store today.
Now, Bill is ready for a well-earned retirement, and the historic shop known for “Really Neat Stuff” is officially looking for its next owner.
“The building is sold, and time is ticking for the store,” Kroner Hardware shared in a July 1 Facebook post. “Serious inquiries are welcome. Make an appointment or come in to speak to Bill.”
The announcement sparked an outpouring of love and memories on social media, with longtime customers and La Crosse residents reflecting on what Kroner’s has meant to them.
“So sad to see you all go,” wrote Ronnie DeLong, who works across the street. “Bill has helped me with various issues…even attempted to help unseize a screw from one of my meat slicers.”
“My great grandfather was Fred Kroner,” added Sarah Kroner Rozenbergs. “I wish I could buy it, but I’m enjoying my retirement. I hope you find someone to carry on.”
La Crosse native Loren Beckman recalled shopping there with his grandfather in the 1960s. “He bought all his wood shop equipment and tools there,” he commented.
Customers from around the country chimed in, like Sarah Henery, who wrote, “Not a local but I love this store!!” Others called it “a gem,” “the best hardware store on Earth,” and “the best place for shopping for gifts.”
While it’s the end of an era for the Kroner family, hope remains that someone will step forward to carry on the tradition of locally owned hardware store. Until then, Bill continues to welcome customers, both locals and tourists, through that familiar front door we’ve all come to know and love.
If you or someone you know is interested in continuing the Kroner legacy, don’t wait. The store is open, and Bill is ready to talk.
As Kroner’s Hardware prepares to pass the torch, it’s a reminder of how our local businesses are the heart of our community. Looking for more local gems? Browse our Around River City Business Directory to discover the places that make the La Crosse area special.
