Wendt’s Jewellery, located on Mildmay’s main street, is marking a huge milestone – they are celebrating their 130th year in business! Wendt’s is a 4th generation business and is certainly a well-known and well respected business in the community and surrounding area.
Wendt’s Jewellery was established in August of 1884 by Charles Wendt Sr., who passed away in May of 1918.
His son, Charles Wendt Jr. was overseas fighting in World War I so Jr.’s brother Bill ran the business until Jr.’s return from the war in 1919.
Charles Wendt Jr. had to give up the business due to health reasons in 1953. His son, David Wendt, quit school at the age of 17 and that was the beginning of his 50 years of ownership of Wendt’s Jewellery Ltd.
In 1980, a gift shop was opened beside the jewellery store with a huge expansion added in 1993.
David talked about retiring in 1985 but instead of retiring he opened another jewellery store in the town of Mount Forest in 1986.
David (who passed away in August of 2008) and his wife Shirley, along with their children, built the business up to what it is today. David & Shirley’s daughters Joanne and Carol, along with their husbands, Greg Ross and Barry Ross (yes, the two Wendt girls married the two Ross boys), took the business over in 2003.
Years ago the jewellery store was full of china, crystal, toys, musical instruments and of course jewellery, watches and clocks. Today the jewellery store, still in its original location, is known for its great selection of diamond engagement rings, gold & silver jewellery, watches and clocks. Wendt’s Jewellery also specializes in custom made jewellery as well as a complete jewellery, watch and clock repair service. Their gigantic gift store is filled with home decor, pictures and hundreds of unique gift ideas.
Wendt’s Jewellery looks forward to serving their customers for many years to come.
Congratulations and all the best to the Wendt’s as they continue their family tradition of fantastic customer service!
