After Joe Hardy graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in industrial engineering, he took the advice of a close friend and opened the Green Hills Lumber Company. After a few years, in 1956, Hardy joined his younger brothers, and together they opened a “cash and carry” lumber yard in the rural town of Eighty Four, Pennsylvania. 84 Lumber is now the 3rd largest home improvement chain in the United States.
Hardy also developed the Hardy family-owned Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. The resort features three hotels, including Falling Rock hotel and clubhouse, Woodlands Spa, an Off-Road Driving Academy, a shooting academy, and multiple onsite restaurants. The resort is also home to the Mystic Rock golf course, designed by Pete Dye, and was home to the PGA Tour's 84 Lumber Classic from 2002-2006.
Watch PCN Profiles and more PA History & Culture on cable and the PCN Select streaming service.