Waco Sales, just about the only place in town to buy firearms and archery supplies and equipment, will close its doors Friday, Dec. 23, after more than 67 years in business.

Gary Swainston, part of the family that has owned and operated it since 1949, gave as a reason, “Too many hours… and it just doesn’t work for me any more. I’ll be looking for a part-time job, maybe 40 hours.”

Waco, located just north of the city limits on Division, a few doors away from the State Police post, has sold hunting and fishing equipment and supplies, outdoor sports clothing, firearms, ammunition, bait, archery equipment and supplies, snowmobiles, lawn mowers, chainsaws, snow blowers and has provided small engine repair.

The Swainston family started at a location next door with a White Rose gas station and grocery store more than 67 years ago. Since then they’ve operated it as S & S Oil, S & S Sales, S & S Distributing and finally Bob Swainston opened Waco in 1975 and ran until he died of cancer just a few years ago.

Gary and his sister, Linda, have been proprietors since then.

Gary announced he wanted to sell the business about three years ago, but he had no takers. He finally sold the buildings to Curvrite, a firm that makes edging for gardens and patios, which has been operating in back of Waco’s. Curvrite plans to use the old Waco buildings for a warehouse.

Gary said he has to get rid of a lot of stuff still located inside the business betweeen now and Dec. 23.

“I’ve got lots of stuff to sell cheap,” he said, noting that includes desks, chairs and fixtures. “Come and get it before it’s gone.”

PHOTO: Gary Swainston behind the sales counter at Waco Sales.