Hamilton Marine, the Maine marine supply store known to boaters throughout the North East, will be opening its sixth marine store location in Kittery, the company said Oct. 29. The location is the former site of Jackson’s Hardware and Marine store, whose owners recently retired.

“With 100-plus years of business in a location rich in history, we are inheriting a loyal customer base,” said Hamilton COO Andrew Blanchard, in a news release.

“We’re known for the size of our inventory and the diverse markets we serve,” said Wayne Hamilton president and owner, in the release. “Over the next few months we will work on updating the Kittery store to fit our needs and steadily add stock until it’s filled. Commercial fishermen, boat builders, and yachtsmen should all find what they’re looking for when we’re done.”

Hamilton Marine continues to grow in Maine.

Wayne Hamilton, a Searsport native, has been on the water most of his life. He lobstered before opening his first “store” in his Searsport garage in 1977 selling commercial fishing supplies.

Shortly afterward he moved to Route 1 and was joined by his (late) wife, Loraine and her siblings.

“We’re still family owned and operated” said Hamilton, “and try to keep a family feel to the place even though we now have over 150 employees.”

Hamilton Marine Inc. has locations in Searsport, Portland, Rockland, Southwest Harbor and Jonesport. They sell mail order via telephone and the internet, shipping product daily to customers all over the world.