Meeting the new owner of Buck's Hardware

Community members had an idea changes were coming to Bucks Hardware in downtown Grand Marais before an official announcement was made. There was a brief closure for inventory and a visit from new owners, but it wasn't until June 26 that Buck Benson was willing to confirm that he has sold Buck's Hardware in downtown Grand Marais.

After the closing, Buck came in to WTIP to share the news, as well as some memories of his 42 years in the hardware--and bait and tackle--business. You can hear our conversation with Buck here.

At that time, Buck also revealed the name and a little bit of information about the new owner, Stephen Skeels, who is moving to the North Shore with his family, from Maryland to operate the hardware store.

WTIP caught up with Stephen during his first days at the store—at the height of the summer season—to learn more about plans for the iconic North Shore hardware store.  

WTIP's Rhonda Silence spoke with Stephen. Here’s that conversation.