Multi-generational roots run deep for Leader Store “family”

Bridget Pirtle’s grandfather, Willie Elias Homra immigrated from Lebanon with three of his brothers, and eventually found his way to Fulton, to establish The Leader Store/Leader Travel, at 410 Lake St. When he arrived at Ellis Island, he boarded the train and put down roots in Fulton.  He opened the Leader Store on Lake Street in 1926 with his bride-to-be Aline Noffel.  The rest is history.

The telephone number for the store is 270-472-3234, and the email is  leader_store@hotmail.com. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the business is closed on Sundays.  

The tradition of working as a family continues, as Bridget’s husband, Mack and their daughter, Elizabeth, help anytime they are needed. Bridget’s older sisters are also a vital part of the daily operations, she said, and the third generation family owned business will soon celebrate 100 years.

“Small business can be difficult as we try to complete with big box stores and online shopping, but there are so many advantages to shopping local,” Bridget said.

“We do not have “customers,” we have “friends and family!”  There is nothing more rewarding than spending each day assisting our community with anything from shipping a package, finding the perfect Christmas gift or planning an amazing vacation,” she said.