About Us

Established in 1931, Drago Hardware embodies the heart and soul of our hometown, Port Arthur, Texas. A cherished multi-generational family venture, our hardware store is not just a business: it's a warm and welcoming part of the residential fabric of this Southeast Texas community.

Started in 1931 by Sicilian immigrants and brothers Joseph and Phillip Drago, Drago Hardware Co. has been a cornerstone of the community for nearly a century. Originally a joint venture, the business flourished until the 1950s when the brothers decided to divide it into two entities: Drago Supply, a wholesale supply company owned by Phillip, and Drago Hardware, a retail hardware store owned and managed by Joseph.

Today, Drago Hardware continues its legacy under the ownership and operation of Joseph's children, Mary, Dominic (now retired), and Jon. Drago Hardware Co. is more than just a store – it's a gathering place for neighbors and friends alike. Our team of experienced professionals not only offers expert advice but also greets each customer with a genuine smile and a warm welcome.

From the moment you step through our doors, you'll find everything you need for your next project, whether it's fixing a leaky faucet or embarking on a full-scale renovation. And it's not just about the products; it's about the personal connections we forge with our customers.

As proud members of the Port Arthur and surrounding community, we're dedicated to giving back. We strive to make our town a better place for everyone. Because at Drago Hardware Co., we believe that building strong relationships is just as important as being our customers first choice for quality products.

Meet the Drago Family and Staff

Mary Frances Drago

Joe Drago's eldest child pursued her undergraduate studies at Sacred Heart Dominical College, where she earned a bachelor's degree in medical technology. After completing her education, she worked in the medical technology field for five years. Despite her success in healthcare, she felt drawn back to her family's hardware business. Since then, she has dedicated over five decades to the hardware business, making significant contributions to its growth and success. Her diverse background in both healthcare and business likely equips her with a unique perspective and skill set essential for her role in the family business.

Jon Drago

The youngest among the Drago siblings, Jon assumed the role of the face of the back counter at Drago Hardware. Having attended the University of Texas, his unwavering dedication to the family business was evident from the start. With over 40 years of experience under his belt, Jon's profound expertise shines through in his extensive knowledge of products and his remarkable knack for fixing nearly anything. Renowned by customers and colleagues alike, he has earned nicknames such as the "Hardware Wizard," "Mr. Fixit," and "Dr. Hardware." Jon's invaluable contributions to the success and reputation of Drago Hardware are immeasurable, painting him as an indispensable pillar of the business.

Lisa Drago

Wife of Jon, Lisa boasts a Master's degree in education and enjoyed a fulfilling career as a Science and Computer teacher spanning 24 years until her retirement in 2023. Transitioning seamlessly into a new chapter, she assumed the pivotal role of marketing and merchandising manager at Drago Hardware. Leveraging her background in Computer networking, Lisa adeptly oversees the store's inventory and ensures a well-curated merchandise assortment, contributing significantly to the store's operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Efrain Medina

Jon's trusted right-hand man, brings a wealth of experience and invaluable skills to Drago Hardware. Both of Efrain's sons previously worked at the store before pursuing other career paths, paving the way for his own journey there. Since 2020, he has served as Jon's dedicated wingman, offering unwavering support and assistance in various aspects of the business. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Efrain's bilingual proficiency is a tremendous asset, catering to over half of the diverse customer base who are Spanish speakers. His extensive expertise in the hardware field, coupled with his exceptional communication and translation abilities, further solidify his role as an indispensable asset to the team.

Dominic Drago

A dedicated individual with a wealth of expertise, attended Sam Houston and served as a member of the US Army Reserves. His commitment extended to the hardware business, where he devoted over 50 years before retiring in 2020. Despite his retirement, Dominic's passion for the industry remains evident as he frequently returns to Drago Hardware, stepping in to cover shifts and enable other employees to take well-deserved vacations.

Liliana Flores

She plays a crucial role as a part-time cashier at Drago Hardware, providing valuable support to Mary Frances and the team. Concurrently, she pursues her nursing degree at Lamar University, showcasing her dedication to both her education and her job. Being bilingual, Liliana's translation skills prove to be a valuable asset, particularly in catering to the diverse customer base at the store. Her commitment, bilingual proficiency, and willingness to assist make her an indispensable member of the team.

Ozzie Torres

A part-time hardware sales and stock person at Drago Hardware, balances his studies in Audio Engineering at Lamar University with his commitment to his role at the store. Bilingual and known for his hardworking nature and dedication, Ozzie brings a dynamic energy to the team. His ability to communicate effectively in two languages enhances customer service, while his strong work ethic ensures tasks are completed efficiently. Ozzie's multifaceted skills and dedication make him an invaluable asset to the team at Drago Hardware.

Luis Vega

Drago Hardware's newest addition to the team, is currently pursuing certification in Petrochemical Process Operations at Lamar Institute of Technology. His bilingual proficiency, coupled with his enthusiasm for learning, makes him a valuable asset to the store. Luis's willingness to tackle new challenges and his dedication to expanding his skill set contribute positively to the team dynamic at Drago Hardware.

Hours

Monday – Friday
Saturday
Sunday

8:00am – 5:45pm
8:00am – 5:00pm
Closed

Visit Us

1900 9th Avenue

Port Arthur, TX 77642

Get Directions