Hartzog’s celebrates 70 years in downtown Gaffney

Charles and Glenda Hartzog have seen more than a few businesses come and go in downtown Gaffney.

One thing those that have gone away had in common, the couple says, was failing to stick it out during the slow times.

‘“You have to be there all day and extra hours when necessary,” Glenda Hartzog said.

This month, Hartzog’s Gifts and Fine Jewelers is celebrating its 70th anniversary of being a go-store for generations of families.

“We are proud to be the second generation running the family business,” Glenda said. “We hope to continue to be successful so that our children will have the opportunity to continue the tradition.”

Charles Hartzog’s father, L.T. Hartzog, opened a 300-square-foot store in 1946 about a block from the current location downtown after returning from World War II.

It started as a jewelry store, but since there were no department stores back then, he and his wife, Will, expanded to sell a variety of goods, from fishing tackle, tools, toasters and electric shavers to flatware, crystal, china and Christmas gifts and accessories.

L.T. Hartzog was also in the credit business at a time when textile workers needed to buy goods before payday.

In 1981, he moved the store to its current location, a 5,000-square-foot showroom in the heart of downtown. Over time, the store began offering bridal accessories and home accessories, including lighting, clocks and candles.

An old-fashioned clock in front of the store pays tribute to the founder.

Hartzog’s later expanded next door, which is stocked with baby products. Charles and Glenda bought the business from L.T. and Will in 1999. The elder Hartzogs continued to work there for several years.

Charles remembers coming over after school to help run the store and learn how to set jewelry.

He met Glenda in high school. They married, and she began working at the store, running the awards department as well as the gift and bridal registries.

Today they have three children — Chevy, Adam, and Rachel. They have two longtime employees who have gotten to know their customers well, attending to every detail.

“We’ve got some very loyal customers, and they appreciate the personalized service and free gift wrapping,” Glenda said.

She said she takes joy in helping young couples plan their weddings, furnish their needs and see them return later with children of their own.

The latest addition to the store is a section of women’s clothing that features seasonal trends.

The Hartzogs plan to thank their customers and welcome new ones during a customer appreciation weekend later this month. They also plan to expand Saturday afternoon hours until 4 p.m.

The store’s hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

This story was originally published September 14, 2016 at 12:25 AM with the headline "Hartzog’s celebrates 70 years in downtown Gaffney."