Richard Brinton founded Brinton's in Carmel in 1961. But the real story of Brinton family retailing begins with Richard's grandfather who owned and operated a General Store in Nova Scotia, Canada. Richard's father Joseph grew up working in his father's store. Inspired by visions of greener pastures, Joseph eventually moved to Willow Glenn, California to raise his family. Soon after he arrived, he opened his own hardware store. From an early age Joseph's son, Richard, demonstrated a passion for retailing as an employee in his father's store. But as he grew up, Richard decided to take what he had learned and expand on it.

The store that Richard opened in 1961 in Carmel reflected his desire to provide a retailing experience that included hardware, paint and home products. This included unique housewares, gifts, bedding and bath, outdoor furniture and garden items.

Customer response was strong from the beginning and has continued over the years. As a result, the store has grown from its original size of 9,000 square feet to over 38,000 square feet. Brinton's current store still includes all of the categories it started with. The most dramatic expansion has occurred in the home furnishings, storage, outdoor nursery and baby departments.

Brinton’s continues to focus on key factors, which has made us successful over the years. These include: Wowing our customers with great service and finding new and exciting products that lead to an inspiring shopping experience.