Fayetteville, N.C.—Hinkamp Jewelers in Fayetteville, North Carolina, is celebrating 70 years in business.
It all started in 1955 when Ruthene Hinkamp encouraged her husband Walter Hinkamp Sr. and his business partner Robert Tyndall to open a jewelry store together.
The Hinkamps and Tyndall had been working together at another jewelry store when they decided to start their own business.
They opened Hinkamp Jewelers on Hay Street in downtown Fayetteville.
In 1983, they opened a second location on McPherson Church Road. In 1993, they consolidated the business to that location.
Walter and Ruthene's children grew up in the jewelry business, spending time in the store after school and during summer break.
Their sons Wally and David became business partners with their parents in 1991 and took ownership of the store in 2000.
“We have many loyal customers,” said Wally. “It's as if we've been 'with' them and their families through engagements, weddings, holidays, and other milestones.”
Following David’s passing in 2012, their sister Donna Hinkamp Warren joined the family business.
Owner Wally, who is also a graduate gemologist, and Donna are still at the helm of Hinkamp Jewelers.
“Familiar faces at the store, Wally and Donna are proud to be carrying on their parents' legacy of integrity, jewelry expertise, and genuine care for their customers,” said the company.