The Farmhouse where Flynn's all began.

Jim Flynn’s Saddle Shop had it’s beginning in 1958 in the loft of a dairy barn at the Meadow Rose Ranch on South Cole Road in Boise, Idaho — and in the camper on the back of a 1958 Chevrolet Apache pickup. Jim, a local cowboy, used the pickup/camper to take his merchandise to livestock and farm sales. His wife Dorothy and brother Hurley would help customers who visited the shop on the farm.

In 1965 the three Flynn’s sold the farm and moved to Pine Haven Apartments, east of the Plantation Golf Course on State Street. It didn’t take Jim long to build a small shop at this location.

Flynn's in the '60's and '70's

Over the years, Jim expanded it two times. In the spring he buzzed down to the race track in his little van and spent the morning on the premise of ‘selling’, but mostly he loved to visit with his friends. He left Hurley in charge of the store. In those days, you could just pull off of State Street and park on the edge of the street in front of the store — don’t try that today!
With Dorothy’s death in 1982, Jim decided it was time for him to retire. He sold the business to his niece and nephew-in-law, Ray and Bev Schmierer. Since Jim lived next door to the shop, he spent a considerable amount of time there. Ray and Bev had the benefit of on-the-job training for the next 5 years until Jim passed away in 1987 (Hurley had passed away in 1984). This business was a challenge but since both Ray and Bev had been raised on farms in the Valley, it was a totally enjoyable experience.

In 1988 the Schmierers moved the business down the street to its present location. With the help of some very special customers, employees and suppliers, they enjoyed almost 20 years of “saddlin’ up every day”.

Flynn's in the 90's

In 2001 Todd Johnson and Doug Leavitt purchased the Saddle Shop, fulfilling a lifelong dream for both to own their own business. Along with their wives Julie and Dana, the Johnson and Leavitt families enjoyed carrying out the traditions established long ago by Jim and improved upon by Ray and Bev. In addition to carrying high quality merchandise at a good price, a solid commitment to supporting the local equestrian community is a top priority.

February 2008 marked another milestone in the story of Flynn’s with the opening of the new 12,000 square foot superstore and the demolition of the former building. Rest assured, the horses are still out front and they always will be. With the expansion came more types of feed, more gift items, increased farrier supplies, and a new pet department. Though we will continue to expand the products we offer, we are committed to carrying high quality products at fair prices while offering honest service and a sincere desire to know our customers and friends. Thank you for making Flynn’s the Premier Tack Shop in the Treasure Valley.