Pierson Building Center main store building originally served as our founder, Ernie Pierson’s home building company in the late 1940s. After WWII and throughout the 1950s his company built many small, sturdy, Mid-Century Modern houses with innovative building methods that made them able to be built quickly. They are colloquially known as “Pierson Houses” and many are still peppered through the neighborhoods of Humboldt County and are beloved by their owners.
In 1962 the home building company was turned into a retail building supply store. For over 60 years Pierson’s has continued to grow and is now Humboldt County’s premier hardware, garden and building supply center.
As a locally, family owned and operated business, for over 60 years we continue to build on our tradition by offering our customers the excellent service and quality products they need to complete all their home improvement and gardening projects. With over 40,000 different items in stock, Pierson’s is the Redwood Empire’s Largest Home Improvement Center and features a full-service Lumber Yard and Garden Shop Nursery.
History of The Big Hammer
After decades with the old iconic hammer sign, it was finally time for an upgrade. In November of 1991 with much fanfare Pierson’s unveiled their brand new “Big Hammer” to the public. Now a local beloved landmark and roadside attraction, what has been said is “the worlds biggest hammer” wows visitors and locals as they enter Eureka on highway 101. It’s marquee sign is also a great place to find the latest specials going on in the store.
The hammer, made from brushed aluminum and solid wood is an exact replica of a Vaughan claw hammer (No. D020) and stands 26 feet tall (30 feet overall including the concrete foundation). All dimensions of the replica are in exact proportion to the original Vaughan hammer. It’s truly a sight to see!
