Founded in 1946, Lowe’s has grown from a small hardware store to the 2nd largest home improvement retailer. worldwide, the 8th largest retailer in the U.S. and 19th largest in the world. The Lowe’s story began in North Carolina when H. Carl Buchan, part owner of the North Wilkesboro Hardware Company, envisioned creating a chain of hardware stores. At the time, Lowe’s was a typical, small-town hardware store selling. everything from overalls to wash tubs, work boots and even horse collars.