January’s California wildfires, fueled by unusually strong Santa Ana winds, have caused widespread destruction across Los Angeles county, significantly affecting local businesses, including several hardware stores. Among the losses is Altadena Hardware, a longstanding fixture in Altadena, which is about 14 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles.
Altadena Hardware Destroyed by Eaton Fire
Altadena Hardware succumbed to the Eaton Fire, one of the largest in the region. The store, owned by Jim and Paula Orlandini, had served the community for over 80 years. The Orlandini family has a long history in the hardware industry, beginning with Vince Orlandini’s purchase of Newland Hardware in El Sereno in 1966. Jim and Paula acquired Altadena Hardware in 2010 and expanded its operations, reopening in 2015 with more space and enhanced inventory. The store was recognized in 2014 with True Value’s Best Store in Town Award.
Regional Impact of the Fires
The Eaton Fire, along with the Palisades Fire and three other major blazes, have burned more than 29,000 acres. High winds, dry vegetation and low humidity have worsened conditions. Much of downtown Pacific Palisades, including a local hardware store, was leveled. L.A. county sheriff Robert Luna reported that approximately 130,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate or prepare to do so.
Local businesses are stepping up to support recovery efforts. Anawalt Lumber Co., located about 20 miles southwest of Altadena, is coordinating the delivery of extra supplies to help with rebuilding. The lumber company, which has a longstanding presence in the Los Angeles area, is providing resources to individuals and businesses affected by the fires.
Anawalt Lumber also announced on its website that its Malibu and Pacific Palisades locations are temporarily closed because of the fires.
Continued Fire Risk
The National Weather Service has extended a red flag warning for Los Angeles and Ventura counties, citing ongoing risks of high winds and low humidity that could fuel further fires. More than 7,500 personnel are working to contain the blazes, with federal disaster relief funds authorized to support recovery efforts.
Altadena Hardware’s destruction highlights the extensive toll these wildfires have taken on local businesses and communities. Recovery will depend on coordinated efforts from residents, businesses and government agencies.
Hardware Connection will continue to update this story in the coming weeks.
