Celebrating 40 Years with Cashmans

CELEBRATING

40 Years with Cashmans by Lisa Kiley

There are so many things that are unique to the equine experience from the horse you choose to the style of riding or other activities you pursue with them. However, when it comes to getting the supplies needed for your horses, there are some things that every horse owner needs that are universal. Cashmans Horse Equipment located in Delaware, Ohio, understands this common ground and has been supplying equine enthusiasts of all stripes since its barn doors opened in 1979. Since that time, while some things have changed, the commitment that they have had to the equine community has not waivered in over 40 years of family-owned operation.

The understanding of making a great experience for shopping was developed because the Cashmans started out as horse people in the industry, just like so many of us. The picturesque family farm where Cashmans Horse Equipment resides was once teaming with many Morgan horses and usually a few Standardbreds. Bill and Helen Cashman ran the successful breeding business, known at the time as Casland Farm, most noted for standing the champion stallion Kingston from 1970-1980. Bill’s knack for pairing the correct broodmares with his stallion created generations of horses that went on to make their mark in the Morgan Horse Industry.

Bill Cashman had a true passion for horses which helped shape the future of his son, Pat Cashman. Pat had a serious interest in developing new training methods to benefit racing horses, which was the precursor to the feed store he would open. It was a close understanding of what a horse needs, and a desire to make the equine experience better for both horse and handler that would eventually pave the way for creating an equine store like no other.

The concept of the drive-thru got its start in both the food service and banking industries. Pat Cashman had a vision that a model like this would be a convenient way for customers to procure feed and supplies for their horses and livestock. Essentially driving through the store, so their trucks could be loaded up with grain and bedding on their way back to the farm. For customers, it is a nice option to have someone meet them at the vehicle, load up the truck and do it in a quick and efficient manner.

Cashmans Horse Equipment started as a local solution in 1979 has since grown and expanded to be a nationally known business. Pat Cashman and his late wife, Kristen, worked tirelessly to create a business that not only met the customer’s needs, but developed great relationships with employees of the business. Pat wanted to empower his staff, so they wanted to take initiative in caring for the customers as well. Pat and Kristen had four children, two of which are actively involved in the family business, while all four remain close in Delaware, Ohio.

A Congress photo from back in the day, (left to right) Bill Cashman, Andrea Cashman, Pat Cashman, Megan (Cashman) Hampu, Ed Cashman.

...the commitment that they have had to the equine community has not waivered in over 40 years...

Pat’s daughter, Andrea Cashman has been at the helm for several years, carefully guiding the business toward new opportunities. Andrea Cashman, like her siblings, grew up working in the store, gaining vital knowledge of the business. After college, she pursued a career in Education before coming back to Delaware, Ohio, to become vice president of the business. Eventually she transitioned into president following her brother Ed Cashman tenure. As of this year, she has taken full ownership of the business. What began as a feed store has developed into a 10-acre shopping experience that includes farm equipment, fencing, horse stalls and mats. Expanding into the online realm, the store can ship items all over the country as customers have come to associate the business with high quality and low prices.

Pat Cashman, now fully retired, has more time these days to pursue his own interests. This includes maintaining the farm where he still produces hay that is sold in the drive thru every year. Andrea’s sister Megan has been the CFO of the business since 2013. Pat’s grandson Alex (Ed’s son) joined the team full time four years ago. In addition, many family members help at the store during our busiest times.

Andrea’s husband, Tony Plymale, had been working at Cashmans part time since he was in high school when he was recruited by Ed Cashman in 1994. Even when he went off to college and pursued a career in financial planning for several years, he continued to work at the store. In 2011 he finally made the transition to full time as the General Manager of the store.

The history of Cashmans success would be remiss without mentioning close family friend and colleague Terry Glassford. Terry has been with Cashmans since 1982. He has been involved with store and trade shows from nearly the beginning. He carries a wealth of knowledge from his experience over the years and is a go to resource for information. Terry is also actively involved in the horse industry and educational youth equestrian programs in the area.

Over the years, Cashman’s has exhibited at many trade shows. There are customers from all over the country that have shopped in those set ups and gotten a feel for the different items that the store has to offer. Following some changes that were made due to the pandemic, Cashmans has focused on growing their on-site and online services, so while they may not be at all the trade shows they once were, they are still going strong and hoping to continue to serve old and new friends alike.

What makes the family business so unique is that in addition to providing some of the most essential products to horse owners, there is an emphasis on educating the customer as well. There is so much to learn about how to best care for these animals we all love. Helping the customer make decisions that will improve the health of their horses and safety of their stable is an investment in the equine industry at large. If you would like to support a local, truly family owned business with years of experience, check out Cashmans Horse Equipment in Delaware, Ohio.

Lisa Kiley is a lifelong horse enthusiast who has worked in the equine industry and shown horses for many years. She is a proud member of the Cashmans Horse Equipment Team. Cashmans Horse Equipment, located in Delaware, Ohio, has been providing top quality products to the equine and agricultural community for 40 years. They have a commitment to sourcing environmentally conscious merchandise and items made in the U.S.A. Cashmans strives to educate customers and provide products that put safety first so you can enjoy more time with the horses you love. www.cashmans.com