Ethelbert Crozier “E.C.” Cross was proprietor of Clinton Hardware Company in 1927 when construction of this building commenced. Prior to this location, Clinton Hardware was located in the D.K. Young Building between the Taylor & Son Building and Memorial Methodist Church. E.C. Cross also held the positions of superintendent of county schools, undertaker, postmaster, and was thought to have been the owner of Clinton’s first car. In 1933, James McKinley “Mack” Burkhart and his sister, Myrtice “Mercie” Burkhart took over assumed operation of Clinton Hardware Company. Mack Burkhart was a member of the Clinton Power Commission, Clinton Civitan Club, a director of Union-Peoples Bank, and a member of the Anderson County Board of Education during the integration of Clinton High School. The Burkhart siblings sold the company in 1966 and the name changed to Clinton Supply & Hardware Co.