From Café to Clothing: The Story of Joe’s Sporting & Clothing

From Small Café to Community Hub: The Growth of Joe’s Sporting & Clothing

Long before it became a staple of Granger’s Main Street life, Joe’s Sporting & Clothing began humbly — as a small restaurant. Joseph Richard Shafer and his wife, Norma, worked side by side to serve the community, building not just a customer base but lasting friendships. Norma recalls the early days vividly: a handful of tables, a modest kitchen, and plenty of hard work.

Over the years, the business evolved. The Shafers expanded from serving meals to offering a variety of goods — first adding basic clothing items, then gradually growing into a complete variety store. Joe’s passion for sports naturally found its way into the store’s identity, leading to a dedicated sporting goods section. It became the go-to spot for local youth baseball equipment, uniforms, and supplies.

Under the name Joe’s Sporting & Clothing, the store not only outfitted teams but also sponsored local Pony League baseball, reinforcing Joe’s belief that a business should give back to the community that supports it.

The store was more than a place to shop — it was a gathering place where neighbors met, shared stories, and supported one another. In the words of one employee, “Each and every one in the Shafer family is a joy to know.”

Joe’s business journey mirrored his life’s philosophy: start small, work hard, and invest in people.