Charles
W. Gundlach decided to
go into business for himself in the spring of 1889 after learning the sheet metal
trade from Jacob Mertz. He opened his Company in a building near the corner of Columbus
Ave. and E. Park Street in Sandusky, Ohio. In 1901, the business
moved to its present location at 910 Columbus Avenue.
According to the old journal in which he used to keep business records, his first charged sale was made May 10, 1889 and was for the purchase of several large pots, pans, and other utensils. The invoice amounted to $1.10. In the store, stoves, ranges and kitchen utensils were stocked for sale. Later, light hardware, paint, oils and varnishes were added to the stock. In 1901, stores were open 6 days a week until 9:00 p.m. The sheet metal shop was in the rear of the store and catered to the sheet metal trade.
Charles retired on March 16, 1931 and passed away in the spring of 1950 at the age of 86.