Since 1972
Cowan’s is a 2nd generation family-owned business serving the Kootenays, and beyond.
Cowan Office Supplies Ltd. is a 2nd generation family owned and operated business established in 1972 by Gordon and Jill Cowan. Prior to being purchased by the Cowan’s it was owned by former Nelson mayor Tex Mowatt and known as J.T. Mowat and Son. It was located at 110 Baker Street and occupied half of the building.
In 1976 Gordon moved the business to its current location at 517 Victoria Street which he purchased from John Thom when it was previously operated as Jonella Cleaners. Gordon hired well-known architect Eric Clough who completely redesigned the building to house the growing operation.
Our business has changed and kept up with developing trends since 1972. In the ’70s and early ’80s we employed a team of machine repair technicians for servicing typewriters and mechanical machines. When these started to decline used furniture became popular in the ’90s and our building was further renovated to accommodate this new opportunity.
In the 2000s, Cowan’s tapped into the growing art supplies market where we now have the biggest selection of art supplies in the Kootenays. In short we are an adaptable growing business willing to do whatever we can to help and service the community we live in and love.
Today, Cowan’s is still in the family — it is carried on by Paul Cowan (son of Gordon) and his wife Morgan LeBlond.
About Us
Visit, call or email us
517 Victoria Street, Nelson, BC V1L 4K7
Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Phone: (250) 352-5507
Toll free: 1-800-332-4474
Fax: (250) 352-9936
Prefer to write? Use our contact form.
Meet the team
- Morgan LeBlond — Owner · purchasing@cowans.org
- Paul Cowan — Owner · Furniture · paul@cowans.org
- Jasmine Ashlie — Art Department Manager · art@cowans.org
- Will Demoskoff — Shipping & Receiving · shipping@cowans.org
Learn with us
Browse our Art Knowledge articles or see upcoming art workshops.
