Fonds F1675 - Chown Family fonds

The Chown family holds an important place in Kingston’s local history. They have earned recognition because of the Chown Hardware business and its success. The Chown Hardware firm remained family owned and operated for over a hundred and twenty years. Over several generations, the descendents of Roger Chown expanded the hardware business, providing employment and prosperity from many Kingston locals. Arthur and Edwin Chown were the company’s primary founders, entering into the tinsmith trade 1837, four years after their arrival in Canada. In 1938, Chown Hardware Ltd. was formed as various family operations merged. The company operated in its limited form until 1967. Chown family members through their various endeavors, business and otherwise, had a significant impact on the Kingston community and local history.