Arkansas has enjoyed JR Barnett's taste in clothing for 45 years. After being raised in a general store, JR purchased his first men's store on Main Street of Heber Springs in 1962. He specialized in men's dress clothing, suits, ties, and shoes. JR's keen eye for the retail business began to evolved into more western merchandise. His dreams finally came true when he became store owner and was selling what he enjoyed the most "keeping western traditions alive and well."

A new era has occurred at The Hobby Horse. JR's daughter, Leah (Barnett) Colclasure, has been handed the reins to the store, but still under the watchful and caring eye of her dad. JR continues to open up in the mornings and helps out when needed, but he is trying to cut back the hours he spends in the store.

Leah has made changes along the way with an update in clothing, boots, and hats to appeal to the younger generation.  She is a perfect fit for the business, afterall, she grew up in the store and not long after her return from college at LSU, she was working and helping her Dad again in the store. 

Move over Leah, here come sister Laynie (Barnett) Ashlock, whom also grew up in the store. Partners together and carrying on the family heritage and tradition, they have put the younger swing into the business. Dad is still hanging in there keeping company with the cowboys & cowgirls that stop in, and oh yeah, if you want to buy something, he will accomodate you too! 

The Barnett Family has a long history of being business owners from back in the early 1900's.

More about the history of this retail family later.