Putnam County’s hunting season is in full swing, and one local business is reminding residents that archery is about more than just bows and arrows. Addington’s Bow Hunter Shop, located in Winfield, marks its approaching 50‑year anniversary as a hub for hunters, families, and anyone who loves the outdoors.
Family‑run roots and a love of the sport
Frank and Kathy Addington opened the shop nearly five decades ago, driven by a shared passion for archery. “I’ve had a wonderful life. I’ve really enjoyed it, especially with her because she hunts too,” Frank says, reflecting on the partnership that has kept the shop thriving.
Kathy adds that Frank has always been willing to sacrifice his own practice time to help customers improve their form and find the right equipment. “When people were having trouble with bows, he’d give up his practice time at our club and help people with their form and their equipment,” she recalls.
A place to learn, shop, and connect
Inside the modest storefront, customers find a wide selection of bows, arrows, trophies, and an indoor shooting range where newcomers can practice safely. But the shop’s greatest draw is its sense of community. A coffee pot and a tea pot are kept brewing, and a fireplace provides a cozy backdrop for hunters to swap stories.
“We keep the coffee pot going and the tea pot going, and it’s just the way that it’s a gathering point. People love this fireplace,” the Addingtons explain. The shop has become a de‑facto clubhouse where seasoned archers and first‑time shooters sit side by side, sharing tips and memories.
Resilience through tough times
The Addingtons have weathered challenges, including the 2008 coal mine closures that hit a large portion of their customer base. Yet the relationships they built and the loyalty of the local community helped the shop stay afloat. “The community kept coming back,” Frank notes, crediting the strong bonds forged over years of shared hunting trips and local events.
Passing the torch
Even as they near the half‑century milestone, Frank remains active on the range, mentoring the next generation of archers. He says teaching newcomers is as rewarding as selling equipment, and he enjoys watching longtime customers continue to hone their skills.
“It feels like our first home if you want to know the truth. It has the warmth that wraps around us,” Frank says, describing the shop’s atmosphere as a family gathering rather than a mere retail space.
Looking ahead
With the 50th anniversary on the horizon, the Addingtons plan to celebrate the shop’s legacy with a community event that will feature demonstrations, a potluck, and stories from the region’s hunting heritage. Their goal is to keep the tradition alive for another fifty years, ensuring that the shop remains a place where a shared love of archery brings people together.
For anyone in Putnam County seeking quality archery gear, expert advice, or simply a friendly place to relax after a day in the woods, Addington’s Bow Hunter Shop continues to be a cornerstone of the local hunting community.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
