Simpson Hardware Co. was founded in 1951 by the late Carl Simpson, Jr. with the purchase of a store on Broad Street in Camden, SC. Several years later, a second store was opened in Hartsville, SC. After selling these locations, Mr. Simpson purchased the Boyle Hardware store in Sumter, SC. That store was opened under the Simpson Hardware name on West Liberty Street in 1961. After one move several blocks away, the original Simpson Hardware in Sumter still remains on West Liberty Street.

In 1963 the Simpson Hardware stores became associated with ACE Hardware. The original store on West Liberty Street was the first ACE Hardware store in South Carolina. In the following year, a second Simpson Hardware location was founded at the Palmetto Plaza Shopping on Guignard Drive under the guidance of Carl Simpson, III.​ Simpson Hardware grew rapidly and moved three times within the shopping center. It settled in its last location there in 1977. With growth, this basic hardware store became widely known for its sporting goods and lawn & garden departments.

The Palmetto Plaza location burned to the ground on April 9, 2000. After several temporary moves, Simpson Plaza Hardware opened in its new building on Wesmark Blvd. in October of 2002. 

The Simpson family has proudly led Simpson Hardware and Sports for over 70 years, spanning four generations. Today, the tradition continues with 11 family members actively involved in the business, including the leadership of the late Carl Simpson III’s three daughters and their husbands. The company remains committed to sustaining a legacy of service and giving, offering Legendary Customer Service and a curated selection of unique products tailored to the southern lifestyle and home preservation.

The Simpson Hardware Way is the way of service, positivity, growth and stewardship. It is upon these principles that we believe the battle is worth fighting and where you will find the Simpson Hardware and Sports team linking arms and working together.