For as long as people have had property to protect, there have been locksmiths. Locking systems have evolved from Egyptian wood crossbeams and vertical beams to today’s electronic card readers and keyless touch pads.
But a locksmith’s most important product is service, says Janet Harrington.
Harrington is owner of the JR Shoup LLC on West Market Street. John R. Shoup founded the firm in 1908. Harrington purchased it in 1988.
“Back then, I didn’t know much about locks except how to put the key in the keyway,” she says. “But I educated myself about the business. I’m always learning new things.”
Harrington expanded services beyond replacing locks and making keys. She brought back safe repair and focused on commercial lock services and residential work.