Our Story...
From Firearms to Flour and Fiction
Their journey began in April 2020 with Jason’s passion project: Old Testament Firearms, a part-time venture into firearms manufacturing and retail. By November 2020, his dream quickly outgrew their home office, leading them to their current, larger retail space at 1223 Menomonie Street in Eau Claire, WI. This new location not only housed the bustling pro-shop but also provided a unique classroom where Anna, Jason’s wife, could homeschool their three children.
Fast forward to mid-2024, and Anna, already immersed in “the shop,” began envisioning the next chapter. Fueled by her love for reading, she dreamed of opening a bookstore. They knew this would create a truly unique combination for the Chippewa Valley: “Guns and Books.” While this pairing might initially surprise some, Jason and Anna warmly welcome everyone to explore either side of their business. For them, this combination perfectly embodies the spirit of American liberty, much like the U.S. Constitution protects both the First Amendment (freedom of speech and expression, found in books) and the Second Amendment (the right to keep and bear arms). Both are fundamental rights, and they believe in fostering an environment where these diverse interests can coexist and thrive.
After months of dedicated planning, they expanded their existing business, proudly opening Flora’s Books and Bread. Here, Anna brings her passions to life, offering a curated selection of new and used books for sale, including a premium rental collection. Visitors can also indulge in her delectable cottage bakery creations, featuring irresistible sourdough breads, alongside high-quality coffee and tea.
Anna’s vision was clear: to cultivate a warm, inviting space for relaxation and reading, while providing a diverse array of genres—from brand-new releases to timeless classics that deserve a spot on every shelf. As they continue to grow and expand their unique offerings, Jason and Anna eagerly anticipate serving the Chippewa Valley for many years to come.
When you visit, you might even meet the heart of their operation: their children, Elijah, Grace, and Naomi, alongside their youngest son, Simon, born in 2023, often serving as their enthusiastic “Shop Helpers” and embodying the family values at the core of everything they do.
OUR mission and values
Our Mission
At Flora’s Books and Bread, we believe in cultivating a unique space where the richness of faith, the wisdom of knowledge, and the comfort of community converge.
Guided by our core values, we aim to nourish the mind, body, and spirit by offering a thoughtfully curated selection of books, wholesome homemade delights, and quality provisions for everyday life, all while championing the foundational freedoms that allow these pursuits to flourish.
Our Values
Faith & Family: Our business is built on the foundation of our Christian faith and the enduring strength of our family. We strive to operate with integrity, love, and service, reflecting these core beliefs in every interaction and every product we offer. Our children are often a part of the “Shop Helpers” team, embodying the family values at the heart of what we do.
Freedom & Flourishing: We deeply value the liberties enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, recognizing how both the First Amendment’s freedom of expression (found in books) and the Second Amendment’s right to bear arms are essential to a thriving society. We champion an environment where diverse perspectives and personal liberties can coexist and flourish.
Quality & Craftsmanship: From the meticulously sourced King Arthur flour in our sourdough to the specialty coffee from Blackout Coffee Co. and the carefully chosen titles on our shelves, we are committed to excellence. We believe in providing products crafted with care, tradition, and an unwavering dedication to quality.
Community & Connection: We strive to be more than just a store; we aim to be a welcoming haven where individuals and families can connect, share ideas, and find solace. We are dedicated to serving the Chippewa Valley by fostering a warm atmosphere for learning, relaxation, and genuine fellowship.