Every great story has a beginning. Ours started in a small cookware shop in Sonoma 70 years ago today. 🍍 Swipe to see the journey and tap the link in bio to celebrate the discoveries, tools and culinary treasures that shaped Williams Sonoma. #70thAnniversary After returning from Europe, Chuck Williams purchases a hardware store in Sonoma and converts it into a shop specializing in French cookware. The Sonoma Index-Tribune announces the opening of the first Williams Sonoma store at 605 Broadway in downtown Sonoma, on September 15th, 1956. The first flagship store still stands at its original Sonoma location, welcoming cooks, hosts and food lovers to discover, gather and be inspired.