Book & Brush

Ellen and Marin Holmes purchased the Cheney NewsStand from Robert Tubbs in 1964.

In 1975, Ellen took over the business. After Marlin's death in 1976, Ellen and daughters, Linda and Robin changed the name to the Book and Brush and added new merchandise.

1979-05-24

1979-05-27: relocated Book and Brush from 420 to 404 1st Street, taking over the old Fonk’s Variety Store location.

“The demand is we have to get more space to expand in the arts and crafts line,” said store owner Ellen Blake.

Blake said she and her husband, Sherm, will be offering a complete line of arts and crafts supplies, including arts and crafts classes taught by area instructors this fall. Sherm will also extend his interest in photography by offering a photography service for weddings, engagements, anniversaries, and other such occasions. They will continue Fonk’s plant and needlecraft departments.

The Blakes opened their business in the store at 420 1st Street 15 years ago. Up until three years ago, though, it was known as the Cheney News Stand and was more of a variety-grocery store, Ellen noted.

A grand opening is being planned by the owners this September. “We intend to westernize the inside and outside,” said Ellen, speaking on what the appearance of the store will be like.

1984-07-26: Last week, Ellen Jones turned over the keys to the Book & Brush to Sue and Harold Scott.

Sue and Harold Scott of Kettle Falls have purchased the Book & Brush store in downtown Cheney.

“We thought it (Cheney) was nice and clean,” commented Mrs. Scott last week when explaining why they chose to go into business here.

In Kettle Falls, Scott had been working as a timber trucker. Mrs.Scott, meanwhile, operated a second-hand store for two years. The Scotts, who have purchased a home in Cheney’s Salnave addition, have two daughters, Lisa, who will be in 10th grade this fall at Cheney High School, and Tricia, who will be in seventh grade at CHeney Junior High.

Mrs. Scott, who will manage the store, said she did not anticipate any major changes in the store at this time and will continue of offer good customer service.

“We definitely are keeping the coffee pot,” she added, referring to the table frequented by local residents throughout the day.

Selling the business is Ellen Jones, who will now spend more time with her spinning, fishing, and other activities, she said.

Jones, and the late Marlin Holmes, purchased the Cheney NewsStand in 1964 from Robert Tubbs, who had the business for 17 years prior to that. Jones said the store was much like a 7-11 store when she and her husband purchased it in 1964. In 1975, Jones took the business over herself, moving it to the present location [404 1st] in 1979. It had been located at 420 First St., now Roberts Sports. She also made it into and arts and crafts store at that time.

The Book & Brush continued until May 1993.