Opening in 1954 as the Jerry Cheatam Davis Island Hardware, this store served South Tampa long before big box companies were a concept. Mom and Pop type operations like this were the backbone of many communities, offering personal service and helping sustain the local economy. It started as three storefronts at 221 East Davis Blvd. in the strip that makes up Davis Islands Shopping Center, a row of stores on the east side of the area's shopping district.  It quickly built a loyal following, offering tools, paint, and rental equipment islanders could access without crossing the bridge.

Owner Theodore “Ted” Herbert Mack died in 1962. The store was purchased from his estate that year and became Culp’s New Davis Islands Hardware Center. By 1964, records indicate Bernie Little, owner of Angels Aviation and the Miss Budweiser Hydroplane, was the owner. In 1966, he put it up for sale, but by early 1967, it had not sold. In early 1969 the store went out of business for the first time.

By late 1978 there had been a re-birth as the Davis Island Sentry Hardware, which had moved to 241 E Davis. It closed on December 29, 2004, after owner Andrew Lown fell behind in his $7000 monthly rent and was evicted. Lown had taken over the lease in 1997. He started working at the store while attending college and, after earning his Master’s Degree in education, bought the store. He cited competition from big box stores like Home Depot led to difficulties paying rent. Studio Cabello Hair Salon took its place in the strip. The 894 sq. ft space now houses Spartaco's Kitchen.

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