The Ballard Bookcase Company (4611 11th Ave NW) is closing after 40 successful years of business in Ballard. Owners David and Carol Entrikin and are closing the business due to their retirement.
“We began in 1977 with Al’s Second Hand, an antique furniture business on Historic Ballard Avenue. We could never meet the demand for bookcases and so, in 1982, began manufacturing a line of inexpensive, all wood bookcases in limited sizes. The business did well enough that we hired woodworkers, and expanded our shop,” says David.
Eventually their bookcase business took over and in 1991 they eliminated antiques and changed the business name to the Ballard Bookcase Company. In 2003 they bought their current store location and have built and sold their products there for the past 13 years.
“We want to thank the thousands of customers who have not only purchased bookcases but have contracted us to build libraries, entertainment centers and bookcase improvements to their homes. When we began in 1978, Ballard was a sleepy part of Seattle and Ballard Avenue was a street lined with more bars than customers. It has been wonderful for us to participate in the transformation while offering the community our beautiful products,” says David.
Saturday, April 2, will be the final day of business and there are a smattering of bookcases and displays available in store at sale prices. The James G. Murphy company will conduct an online auction of the remaining equipment and fixtures in the middle of April.
The showroom is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
