BROADVIEW TURNS A NEW LEAF
Broadview Florist and Greenhouses, Inc., 5409 Winchester Road has served Waynedale and the Fort Wayne area since 1919. Broadview started out as a farm that raised cows, pigs and chickens, as well as, many types of vegetables that were delivered and sold in the downtown markets on Barr Street in Fort Wayne. Carl Schweppe was President and Fred Meyer, Secretary and Treasurer. A bill of laden from August 24, 1935, sold to Mr. Otto Hans displayed a bride’s bouquet costing $4 and corsages 70 cents. Later Broadview became producers of floral cut-flowers and was one of the largest growers around. In 1950, Hoadly Dominy took over the floral business.
The Hackbarth family purchased Broadview Florist in 1957, the third owners of Broadview. With the invention and distribution of plastics in the 60s and 70s, Broadview became a large grower of potted plants allowing the general public the opportunity to buy and easily carry their plants home.
Today, 97 years later, the store remains at the same location on the southside of Fort Wayne. The only thing changing are the owners.
Doug Hackbarth and his wife Sandy truly made this a family business. Their daughter, Heather and son, Travis and mother-in-law, Lois all worked at Broadview. And so did Doug’s father, Robert Hackbarth Sr.
But as time goes on, we all look forward to retirement. As does Doug and Sandy. Yes, they have made the decision to sell their business and property, spend more time with their grandkids, fly more places, play in a band or two and enjoy life.
Taking over the floral and greenhouse business, please welcome Mike and Catherine Waters. Mike, 33, is a teacher and landscaper by trade. He grew up in the Fort Wayne community, graduating from Carroll High School. His wife, Catherine, is a native of Columbia. She has experience in event planning and catering. They have two girls, Elly, 2 ½ and Mhaira, 15 months.
“Doug and Sandy worked for a straight month helping us get started,” said Catherine. “And they still stop in on occasion, and at anytime we have questions they are right there helping us out.”
“We will be continuing the legacy of customer service,” Mike added, “and we hope to carry on for another 50-60 years, just like Doug and Sandy.”
When asked what they may do different, Mike and Catherine both said, “We want to reach out to the Hispanic neighborhoods.” Both are bilingual.
So whether you’re looking to give your garden a makeover or a complete facelift this season, now is the time to stop by Broadview, introduce yourself to the new owners Mike and Catherine.
Mike says, “Everything must go! Outdoor hanging baskets, vegetable and flower plants at least 60% off! We’re already thinking about fall!”
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