604-608 N. Main

First Businesses - Lehman's Hardware

Samuel Lehman arrived in Newton from Ohio in June 1871. He purchased the lot at 604 N Main and built a 25 foot wood frame structure and opened his hardware and implement business. With business expansion, he eventually rebuilt and took over 606 and 608.

Samuel Lehman is credited with having the necessary hardware and implements to construct many of the original structures in the region. He also had the distinction of selling more Cassidy plows in one season than any retail firm in the United States. Lehman died at the age of 72 in October 1920, leaving his nephew, Clayton Lehman, to take over the business. Lehman's closed in 1966, after operating for more than 80 years on Main Street.

(Kristine Schmucker)