A North Carolina icon says goodbye after more than a century
Some stores feel like they’ll last forever — the kind that have survived wars, recessions, and decades of change. But even the most enduring local businesses sometimes reach their final chapter. That’s what’s happening to Sherman’s Sports, a beloved North Carolina sporting goods store that has been serving generations since 1922.
After more than a century in operation, Sherman’s Sports & Army has announced that it’s closing for good. The store’s owners, part of the Sherman family that founded the business, are retiring — marking the end of an era for the Hendersonville community.
From a humble general store to a hometown icon
Sherman’s began its journey in 1922 when Louis Sherman opened a small general store in Hendersonville, North Carolina. The shop sold everything from jewelry and army surplus to sporting goods and toys. Over the decades, it evolved into Sherman’s Sports & Army, known for its outdoor clothing, footwear, souvenirs, and local gifts.
The business stayed in the family, passing from Louis to his son Kalman, and later to his daughter Becky and her husband, Rex Banadyga. For decades, Sherman’s Sports was more than just a store — it was part of the town’s identity. It was where kids bought their first BB guns, families picked out gifts, and locals found friendly conversation along with good deals.
The decision to close after 103 years
After celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2022, the owners announced that the store would soon close its doors for the last time. According to local reports, the decision comes down to retirement — and the next generation has chosen not to take over the business.
“Lots of people are sad to see us go,” owner Becky Sherman Banadyga told the Times-News. “People have memories of getting their first rifle, toy train, or favorite gift here. But it’s time to retire.”
In early announcements shared on community Facebook pages, the family confirmed that everything in the store would be discounted as part of a going-out-of-business sale, with 25% off all merchandise until the final day.
Community reactions: more than just a store
The closure sparked an outpouring of emotion online. Locals described Sherman’s as a place that felt like home — where neighbors met, children grew up, and friendships formed. Long-time customer Melissa Smith wrote, “Sherman’s has always been more than a store. It’s part of who we are as a community.”
Others shared similar memories of decades spent shopping there — buying guitars, boots, or souvenirs that marked milestones in their lives. As one commenter put it, “It’s a Main Street institution. I wish someone could keep it going.”
How Sherman’s survived a century
Few retail businesses make it to 100 years. Experts call this rare longevity a result of “organizational ambidexterity” — the ability to evolve while staying true to core values. Sherman’s managed to adapt naturally over time, shifting from a pawn and general store into a sporting goods and outdoor gear destination without losing its personal touch.
Stanford professor Charles O’Reilly notes that companies often fail when their once-successful strategies no longer fit a changing world. Sherman’s, however, managed to bridge generations — surviving economic downturns and retail shifts that closed many of its national competitors.
A disappearing breed of retailers
While national chains like Macy’s and JCPenney have managed to stay afloat for over a century, many once-famous sporting goods stores have not been as lucky. Over the past decade, iconic names such as Modell’s Sporting Goods, Sport Chalet, and Golfsmith have shut down entirely. In 2024, even long-running chains like Bob’s Stores and Eastern Mountain Sports filed for bankruptcy.
These closures highlight how difficult it has become for traditional retailers to compete in an era dominated by e-commerce and corporate giants. In that context, Sherman’s century-long survival stands out as a remarkable accomplishment.
What happens next for the space and the legacy
The family hasn’t shared plans for what will happen to the historic storefront at 126 North Main Street in Hendersonville. But the legacy of Sherman’s Sports will continue through the memories of those who shopped there — from the locals who bought their first camping gear to tourists who took home a small souvenir from their visit.
Even as big-box retailers and online stores dominate the market, Sherman’s reminds us of a time when shopping meant connection, conversation, and community.
The final farewell
After 103 years of service, Sherman’s Sports leaves behind a legacy of resilience and heart. Its closing is more than just the end of a business — it’s the closing of a beloved chapter in local history. For the people of Hendersonville, the memories will last long after the storefront goes dark.
As one resident said best: “Sherman’s wasn’t just a store — it was family.”