Local shop has roots in rural Ontario
By Shannon Ortiz
Farms.com
Keleher’s is a unique shopping experience that will have you coming back for more.
Connie and Shirley took over the family business selling tack (a piece of equipment or an accessory equipped on horses) and western wear. The sisters have grown the business into so much more — including gorgeous women’s apparel, hard-core biker gear and, of course, their famous wall of cowboy boots!
The business started around 1960 at their family home in Puslinch, Ontario, after their entrepreneur father, Wilfred Keleher, bought two saddles and sold one, making a profit.
Later, the family moved to a 3,000 square-foot home near Townline Road in Cambridge. Customers would travel to the store by horse to buy merchandise.
After 50 years, Connie and Shirley sold the family home and accompanying land to Petro Canada.
The sisters, who have a passion for all things beautiful and rugged, then moved the store to a 7,000 square-foot facility on King Street in Cambridge.
“(The boutique is) unique and the prices are fair,” says Connie.
“(Seeing) customers come in after 30 (or) 40 years is pretty nice,” remarks Shirley.
“Customers talk about our parents and how they bought their first saddle, or first horse from our father. To think that we have carried on (the business) for that many years is amazing!”
Keleher’s is also involved in the community. The business hosts a Bike Night BBQ every Wednesday evening from May to September to raise money for charity. The evenings include a 50/50 draw and prize table.
“We raise money for two charities: Lisaard House and Arkas House,” said Connie. “Last year we raised $2,400 for each charity.”
Cowboys and bikers — male and female alike — will all enjoy Keleher’s range of merchandise, which includes leather chaps, jackets, gloves, cowboy hats, boots and buckles. The family also sells women’s scarves, shirts, sweaters and unique purses.
“In clothing, we have (customers) covered from head to toe,” said Shirley.
Keleher’s also specializes in western weddings, for which they offer group discounts.
The store is open Monday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
You can find Keleher’s on Facebook, Twitter @KelehersWestern and Instagram @keleherswesternwear.
Photos: Shannon Ortiz