Tony Agostinelli, Sr. and his wife Theresa founded Charlotte Appliance in 1932. The business was originally located in the village of Charlotte at the corner of Fleming Street and Lake Avenue. During the depression when money was scarce, Tony Sr. would barter and trade with customers for goods and services. He developed such a rapport with his customers that they kept coming back.

Tony Sr. was an entrepreneur who realized his goals and dreams by cultivating a reputation of delivering department store service at the low prices of a family-owned business. A key to his success: Charlotte Appliance did not then and still does not today have the steep overhead of chain, department or specialty stores.

Charlotte Appliances did so well that in 1960, Tony was able to purchase the block-long Lake Theater building on Lake Avenue. In 1961 he added televisions, furniture, and bedding to the sales list. Then and today, the expansive theater's lobby, ballroom and balcony areas are stocked with televisions and furniture. The lower level is reserved for appliances. The lighted marquee on Lake Avenue reads "Charlotte Appliance."

Charlotte Furniture & Appliance remains locally owned and operated by second and third generation Agostinelli family members. The owners are on premises along with the area's most knowledgeable sales and office staff. All work together to uphold the reputation of founder Tony Agostinelli.