- Term
Texas Tanning Manufacturing Company
- Alternate Term
Texas Tanning Manufacturing Company
- Geography
Yoakum, TX
- Date
active established 1919
- Remarks
Tex Tan..the small hide tannery that opened its doors as Western Hide & Company in 1919 has since become one of the most respected leather companies in the world. Not only was Tex Tan manufacturing saddles, but also harnesses and horse collars in the early years. During the Depression, Tex Tan, then named Texas Tanning & Manufacturing Co., began manufacturing finished leather products as well as Hereford Brand saddles and Texas Ranger belts. In the 1940’s, Tex Tan added another brand name line of saddles and began marketing aggressively. Ads for the product lines ran in some of the largest publications in the country and celebrities endorsed many of Tex Tan’s products. The company also profited from several government contracts, supplying rifle slings and saddles. During this time, Texas Tanning & Manufacturing Co. also changed its name to the present name of Tex Tan. By the 1960’s, Tex Tan grew and developed, particularly in the area of saddles and tack. It was during this time that Tex Tan’s saddle testing program began-measuring the strength and durability of the saddle trees manufactured. In 1969, Tex Tan’s 50th Anniversary, the demand for Tex Tan saddles was so great that ground breaking for a new 48,000 sq. ft. building took place. That same building continues to house the manufacturing facilities today, along with a 200,000 sq. ft. manufacturing and distribution facility. With increasing growth during the late 70’s and 80’s, and sales extending over the United States, Canada, Mexico and overseas, Tex Tan has become one of the leading leather manufacturing concerns in the United States. In continuing with this growth, an office building was purchased in 1984, the present site of the Tex Tan offices. Tex Tan currently manufactures and distributes saddles, saddle blankets and pads, halters, bits and spurs and a complete line of quality tack as well as belts, buckles, billfolds and other gift items. Tex Tan is also a Corporate Sponsor of the NBHA, AQHA, NLBRA & Booger Barter, four of the most well respected organizations in the horse industry. From 1919 to present, Tex Tan has continued to add experienced personnel to the qualified staff already in place--another way of ensuring Tex Tan quality and service remain second to none.