In 1850, Joliet was a small, but growing Illinois town. Its location on the Des Plaines River/I&M Canal, proximity to Chicago and service by many railroads practically guaranteed that it would rapidly become a major industrial center. A talented young entrepreneur named William F. Barrett opened a small tin shop and hardware store on what was then the busiest intersection in town, Bluff and Jefferson Streets. As the city grew, the business moved four blocks to a building across from the Will County Court House on Jefferson Street. At this time, William’s son John joined the business and it was renamed W.F. Barrett and Son. W.F. Barrett died in 1879, after 29 years as the owner. The following year his youngest son Edward joined the business. The firm reorganized as a partnership with Mrs. Barrett, Edward, and John and the name was changed to Barrett and Sons. In 1891 the firm was incorporated as Barrett Hardware Company. The expansion of the city and its environs created a tremendous demand for hard goods which Barrett’s continually met. This continued growth necessitated several moves to ever larger quarters, the last in 1937 to the former Bates Manufacturing plant, birthplace of one of the first track-driven farm tractors. It is at this location that Barrett Hardware still operates today.

In the present time, Barrett Hardware and Industrial Supply is owned and operated by Robert Pierson and family. As it always was, Barrett's is dedicated to providing you with the best possible source for your industrial maintenance and contractor supplies. State-of-the art computer systems and inventory control make ordering from us a breeze and ensure that you'll get what you want, when you want. As we start our venture to the online market world, we will do our very best to accommodate people around the country with products they need.