Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each month I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting the success of a small business in my…
Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each month I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting the success of a small business in my home State of Idaho. Today, I am pleased to honor Thomas Mercantile as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for July 2025.
Thomas Mercantile opened in Swan Lake in 1909 when Samuel Thomas bought the store. Alongside his brothers Chauncey and Moroni, the family operated the local post office, grocery store, and a harness and saddle business.
During its 108 years of operation, the Thomas Mercantile was known as the ``hub'' of the Swan Lake community. From its early days as a dancehall and barbershop to becoming home to the first television in east Idaho, the shop was a favorite spot for town meetings and camaraderie. Three generations of Thomases ran the business, overcoming the Great Depression, World War II, tragedy, and triumph, before closing the mercantile in 2017.
In the spring of 2021, Idaho native Kaarin Engelmann took on the challenge of reopening the store. After a lengthy restoration process, during which Kaarin worked extensively to preserve the business's history, charm, and beloved radiators, the Thomas Mercantile reopened its doors in May of 2023.
Today, Kaarin continues the legacy of the Thomas Mercantile by hosting community events, such as board gaming afternoons, Music at the Merc, and Swan Lake Market Day. The shop also supports local producers, sourcing its baked goods, eggs, pork, and beef from vendors in the Swan Lake region.
Congratulations to Kaarin, the Thomas family, and all the employees at Thomas Mercantile on being selected as the Idaho Small Business of
the Month for July 2025. Thank you for serving Idaho as small business owners and entrepreneurs. You make our great State proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success.