Wostok Hardware Store
Built 1937-1938, Depicts 1939
Hardware stores stocked more specialty items not always available at general stores. In addition to hardware and home goods, the store provided coal oil and gasoline for people in the area.
This store had the luxury of electric lighting. The building’s electrical system was powered by batteries that were charged by the wind generator mounted on the roof.
Vasyl Knysh, a semi-retired Ukrainian farmer, built this store in the town of Wostok. Mr. Knysh was an active member of his church parish and the local municipal government and carried on these activities from the store. He also lived in the quarters at the back of the store. In 1939 his 10-year-old daughter, Vicki, lived with him to attend school in town.
