History Walk Site 2: Mochel Hardware

Levi Mertz and Charles Mochel constructed the original building at 36 S Main (later renumbered 5122 Main Street), where the two partners opened their business, Mertz & Mochel, on June 25, 1884. The brick building consisted of a basement and two stories, utilizing wood columns, beams and floors, and was bordered by alleys on the south and west. Electricity was added in 1900. 

In 1922, Mertz sold his interest to Charles Mochel, who formed a partnership with his son, John Mochel, Sr. The business was renamed Charles Mochel & Son. Also in 1922, by closing the alley to the south, the Mochels expanded the building for the first time. Next came the 1932 exterior alterations that changed the store to what is seen today. An ambitious 1955 rear addition doubled the building in size, extending the main and second floors above the newly excavated basement addition, all reaching the west alley. 

Mochel’s closed in 1995, ending 111 years of serving residents of Downers Grove and neighboring towns. 

Watch the Mochel Family documentary here.