How Burns Saddlery Creates Authentic Western Wear for 'Yellowstone' Stars
In the heart of Salina, Utah, Burns Saddlery stands as a testament to American Western heritage and craftsmanship. Founded in 1876 by Miles Burns, this family-owned business has evolved through six generations, becoming the oldest family-owned Western shop in America. What began as a blacksmith operation has transformed through the decades, adapting to changing times while maintaining a commitment to quality handcrafted products.
The business experienced a significant boost in recent years through its unexpected connection with the hit television series Yellowstone. After a chance encounter with the show's costume designer at their Park City location, Burns Saddlery began providing iconic Western wear seen on the show. This partnership has catapulted their handcrafted hats, belts, buckles, and boots to international recognition, with products shipping worldwide and helping revitalize interest in authentic Western culture and craftsmanship.
Key Takeaways
Burns Saddlery has maintained family ownership for six generations while evolving from blacksmithing to creating luxury Western wear since 1876.
The company employs over 60 craftsmen who create handmade, heirloom-quality products including custom boots, saddles, hats, and belt buckles.
Their partnership with the television show Yellowstone has significantly expanded their reach and helped revitalize interest in Western heritage worldwide.
Uniquely Utah's Cowboy Heritage
In the heart of Salina, Utah, exists Burns Saddlery, the oldest family-owned Western shop in America. Dating back to 1876 when Miles Burns established it, this remarkable business has evolved through six generations, pivoting from blacksmithing and saddle-making to creating luxury Western wear that shapes modern cowboy fashion.
The Burns family business reflects Utah's pioneering spirit. Current leader Braden Shaw, the sixth-generation Burns to guide the company, maintains his ancestors' tradition of entrepreneurial innovation while preserving core Western values.
Burns Saddlery employs 105 people in their small community, including 60 skilled craftsmen who create handmade products from custom boots to saddles, belt buckles, and hats. These items represent what production president Matthew Wner calls "functional art" – pieces designed to be both beautiful and durable enough to withstand harsh elements.
The craftsmen pride themselves on building heirloom-quality products that can last a lifetime. Their dedication to quality has expanded the business beyond its original small shop to multiple retail locations across different states, with products shipping nationwide and internationally.
An unexpected turning point came when the costume designer for TV show Yellowstone walked into their Park City store. What began as fitting the cast for what the Burns team initially thought was a documentary evolved into an ongoing partnership that continues today. The shop creates iconic pieces for the series, including the distinctive black hat worn by Kevin Costner's character John Dutton in Season 5.
With Yellowstone's immense popularity, Burns Saddlery has seen orders skyrocket. They ship Yellowstone-inspired hats, belts, and buckles worldwide, with Costner jokingly referred to as their "number one salesperson" for the past four years.
The show has revitalized interest in Western culture and heritage, benefiting the entire Western wear industry. For Burns Saddlery, it's brought their small-town craftsmanship into the spotlight, allowing people everywhere to own a piece of authentic American Western heritage through their handcrafted products.
Burns Saddlery's Evolution
From Blacksmiths to Western Fashion Icons
Burns Saddlery stands as America's oldest family-owned Western shop, with roots dating back to 1876 when Miles Burns established the business. What began as a blacksmith operation has undergone remarkable transformation through the decades. The company evolved from crafting horsedrawn carriages and saddles to inventing car seat covers, and now specializes in luxury Western wear. This adaptability has been crucial to their longevity.
The business currently employs 105 people in the small community of Salina, Utah. Of these, approximately 60 are skilled craftsmen who create handmade products ranging from custom boots and saddles to belt buckles and hats. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship has built their reputation in the Western wear industry.
Sustained Through Generations
Now in its sixth generation of family ownership, Burns Saddlery continues to thrive under Braden Shaw's leadership. Following the entrepreneurial spirit of his ancestors, Shaw has maintained the company's dedication to quality while bringing his own expertise to the business. His particular passion for hat-making represents just one facet of the company's diverse product line.
Matthew, the president of production and a saddlemaker by trade, oversees quality control across all product lines. He describes their creations as "functional art" – items that serve practical purposes while displaying exceptional craftsmanship. The team takes pride in creating heirloom-quality products that can withstand the elements and last for generations.
Their business philosophy centers on:
Maintaining handcrafted production methods
Creating products that blend function with artistry
Producing items durable enough for daily use yet beautiful enough to cherish
Constant improvement in craftsmanship
Adaptation and Innovation
Burns Saddlery's expansion beyond Salina demonstrates their business acumen. They now operate retail spaces in multiple states and ship products globally. Their Park City, Utah location proved particularly significant when it attracted the attention of Yellowstone's costume designers, creating an unexpected partnership.
The television show Yellowstone has dramatically boosted Burns Saddlery's visibility and sales. Cast members wear their products, including the iconic John Dutton black hat from Season 5. This exposure has created worldwide demand for their craftsmanship, with orders coming from international customers wanting to own pieces similar to those seen on screen.
The Yellowstone effect has benefited not just Burns Saddlery but the entire Western wear industry. As one team member noted, "Kevin Costner has been our number one salesperson for the last 4 years." The show has revitalized interest in Western culture and heritage, bringing renewed appreciation for traditional craftsmanship in saddles, hats, boots, and other Western accessories.
The Craftsmanship of Burns
In the heart of Salina, Utah stands Burns Saddlery, the oldest family-owned Western shop in America. Since 1876, six generations of the Burns family have maintained a tradition of excellence while continuously adapting to changing times. Their journey from blacksmithing to creating luxury Western wear represents the pioneering spirit that defines Western heritage.
Handcrafted Western Apparel
Burns employs over 60 skilled artisans who create every product by hand. Their workshop buzzes with activity as craftspeople shape premium materials into functional art. The production team, led by Matthew, a former saddle maker with 15 years of experience, ensures each item meets exacting standards.
Their product line includes:
Custom hats (shaped individually)
Handmade boots
Saddles
Belt buckles (hand-engraved)
Other Western accessories
The manufacturing process combines traditional techniques with attention to detail. Each artisan contributes their expertise to create pieces that are both beautiful and functional—designed to withstand the elements while maintaining their distinctive appearance.
Tradition of Excellence
The Burns business has transformed multiple times throughout its 147-year history. What began with Miles Burns in 1876 has evolved from blacksmithing and carriage-making to creating innovative products like car seat covers and now luxury Western wear.
Braden Shaw, the sixth-generation Burns family member running the operation, maintains the entrepreneurial spirit of his ancestors. Under his leadership, the company has expanded beyond their original small shop to include:
Multiple retail locations across states
International shipping capabilities
105 total employees in their community
Their commitment to craftsmanship gained mainstream recognition when costume designers for the television show "Yellowstone" discovered their Park City store. This partnership has placed Burns-made items on screen, with Kevin Costner's character John Dutton wearing their iconic black hat in Season 5.
Timeless Creations
Burns creates products meant to last generations. Unlike mass-produced items, their goods develop character with age and use. The artisans take pride in creating what they describe as "functional art"—pieces that can be "used and abused but still last a lifetime."
The popularity of "Yellowstone" has dramatically increased demand for Burns products. Fans worldwide order replicas of items seen on the show, particularly:
John Dutton's black hat
Beth Dutton's distinctive hat
Custom belts and buckles
Specialized boots
This resurgence of interest has revitalized Western culture broadly, benefiting the entire industry. Burns' dedication to quality construction ensures each customer receives an authentic piece of Western heritage—something that connects them to America's pioneering spirit and the unique craftsmanship that defines Burns Saddlery.
Cultural Impact and Popularity
Burns Saddlery has significantly influenced Western fashion and culture from its headquarters in Salina, Utah. As America's oldest family-owned Western shop, the company has transformed over generations while maintaining its commitment to quality craftsmanship. Their handmade products represent functional art that combines practicality with beauty.
The brand's visibility exploded when Yellowstone's costume designer discovered their Park City store. This chance encounter led to Burns Saddlery outfitting the cast with iconic Western wear that millions of viewers admire. Kevin Costner's character John Dutton's black hat has become particularly recognizable, with the company referring to Costner as their "number one salesperson" for the past four years.
Yellowstone's popularity has revitalized interest in Western heritage and fashion. Burns Saddlery now ships products worldwide to customers eager to own authentic pieces similar to those featured on the show. The most requested items include:
John Dutton's black hat (Season 5)
Beth Dutton's hat
Custom belts and buckles
Handcrafted boots
The show has benefited not just Burns Saddlery but the entire Western wear industry, bringing renewed attention to saddles, hats, boots, and other traditional items. This cultural resurgence celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and self-reliance that characterize Western heritage.
With 105 employees, including 60 skilled craftsmen, Burns Saddlery continues creating heirloom-quality products while adapting to modern demands. Their growth from a small local business to an internationally recognized brand demonstrates how traditional craftsmanship can remain relevant in contemporary culture.
Burns and Yellowstone: Crafting the Modern Western Look
Shaping Western Fashion Trends
In the heart of Salina, Utah stands Burns Saddlery, the oldest family-owned Western shop in America. Dating back to 1876 when Miles Burns established the business, this remarkable enterprise has evolved through six generations. What began as a blacksmith operation expanded into horsedrawn carriages, saddles, and eventually luxury Western wear. The business has consistently adapted with each new generation while maintaining its commitment to quality craftsmanship. Their distinctive products have become synonymous with authentic Western style, influencing fashion trends far beyond Utah's borders.
Creating Handcrafted Western Heirlooms
Burns Saddlery employs 105 people in their small community, including 60 skilled craftsmen who build handmade products with exceptional attention to detail. The company produces custom boots, saddles, belt buckles, hats, and other Western accessories—each item crafted by hand with precision and care. Matthew Wner, who began as a saddle maker 15 years ago and now serves as president of production, describes their products as "functional art" that can withstand harsh elements while lasting a lifetime. These aren't merely fashion items but heirloom-quality pieces that combine practicality with artistry.
Product Range:
Custom handcrafted hats
Handmade leather saddles
Belt buckles with custom engravings
Western boots
Leather accessories
Yellowstone's Influence on Western Style
Burns Saddlery's profile dramatically increased when Yellowstone's costume designer walked into their Park City store while filming nearby. What began as a chance encounter evolved into an ongoing partnership, with Burns creating iconic pieces for the hit series through Season 5. The black hat worn by Kevin Costner's character John Dutton has become particularly famous, alongside other signature items from the show.
The Yellowstone effect has been transformative for Burns:
They ship Yellowstone-style hats, belts and buckles worldwide
Kevin Costner has become their "number one salesperson"
The show has revitalized interest in Western heritage and style
Burns' craftsmanship reaches a global audience
Braden Shaw, the sixth-generation Burns family member now running the business, appreciates how the show has brought attention to Western culture. The company has expanded beyond its small-town roots to include retail spaces in other states, shipping their authentic Western wear across America and internationally. Through their commitment to quality and their unexpected Hollywood connection, Burns Saddlery continues to shape the modern Western aesthetic while honoring its historic roots.
Burns Saddlery's Evolution and Impact
Burns Saddlery has established itself as a cornerstone of Western fashion and culture from its humble beginnings in Salina, Utah. Founded in 1876 by Miles Burns, this family-owned business represents six generations of entrepreneurship and innovation. As the oldest family-owned Western shop in America, Burns Saddlery has continuously adapted to changing times while maintaining its commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Expanding Retail Presence
The company has grown significantly from its original small-town roots. With 105 employees in Salina, including 60 specialized craftsmen, Burns Saddlery has developed into a substantial operation. They have strategically expanded their retail footprint beyond Utah's borders, opening stores in multiple states.
The business employs skilled artisans who create various handmade products:
Custom boots
Saddles
Belt buckles
Western hats
Matthew, the president of production and a saddlemaker by trade, describes their products as "functional art" that can withstand harsh conditions while still lasting a lifetime. Burns Saddlery's commitment to quality has been a driving force behind their retail expansion.
Braden Shaw, representing the sixth generation of the Burns family, continues to innovate while honoring the company's heritage. The business has transformed multiple times over its history, evolving from blacksmithing to carriage-making to creating luxury Western wear.
International Recognition
Burns Saddlery's reputation has extended well beyond American borders. Their products are now shipped worldwide, reaching customers who appreciate authentic Western craftsmanship. The company's visibility increased dramatically when their Park City store caught the attention of costume designers for the television series Yellowstone.
This unexpected partnership has elevated Burns Saddlery to international prominence. Their iconic pieces, particularly the hats worn by Kevin Costner's character John Dutton, have become highly sought-after items. As Braden Shaw notes, "Kevin Costner has been our number one salesperson for the last 4 years."
The Yellowstone effect has introduced Burns Saddlery's products to new markets:
Product Category Popularity Level Notes Character Hats Extremely High Most recognizable items from the show Belts & Buckles High Popular accessories Custom Boots Moderate to High More individualized purchases
This television exposure has revitalized interest in Western heritage across the globe. Burns Saddlery continues to craft distinctive items for the show's production, maintaining their connection to this cultural phenomenon. Their ability to preserve traditional craftsmanship while gaining international recognition demonstrates how this small-town Utah business has secured its place in Western fashion history.
Iconic Products and Western Fashion
Signature Headwear
Burns Saddlery in Salina, Utah, has become renowned for their exceptional handcrafted hats, which have emerged as their most recognizable products. These hats have gained significant popularity through their appearance on the hit television series Yellowstone. The "John Dutton" black hat from Season 5 stands as one of their most requested items, with customers eager to own the same style worn by Kevin Costner's character.
The company's expert craftspeople take pride in seeing their creations showcased on screen. Each hat is meticulously handcrafted, reflecting the shop's commitment to quality that dates back to 1876. The Yellowstone connection has dramatically increased demand, with Burns shipping their signature hats to customers worldwide.
Western Apparel and Accessories
Beyond headwear, Burns Saddlery excels in creating premium boots, belts, and decorative buckles that embody authentic Western style. The company employs over 60 skilled craftspeople dedicated to maintaining traditional techniques while producing functional art pieces. These items are designed to withstand harsh elements while maintaining their aesthetic appeal.
Their handcrafted belts and ornate buckles featured on Yellowstone have become highly sought-after, allowing customers to own a piece of the show's distinctive style. The boots represent a more personalized aspect of their product line, with various styles available to suit individual preferences. Each item receives meticulous attention from craftspeople like Matthew, who oversees production quality and ensures every piece meets the shop's exacting standards.
Popular Burns Saddlery Products:
Custom cowboy hats (including Yellowstone character styles)
Handcrafted leather belts
Engraved decorative buckles
Custom-fitted boots
Saddles and other equestrian equipment
The appearance of these products on Yellowstone has reinvigorated interest in Western fashion across the industry, bringing new appreciation to the cultural heritage these handcrafted items represent.
Western Revival
The cowboy image remains one of America's most recognizable cultural symbols, seamlessly transitioning from historical frontier life to contemporary fashion. This enduring appeal continues to resonate with modern audiences while supporting traditional craftsmanship industries across the country.
Western Industry Renaissance
Burns Saddlery in Salina, Utah exemplifies the resilience of Western-oriented businesses, standing as the oldest family-owned Western shop in America since its 1876 founding. This multi-generational enterprise employs over 100 people, including 60 craftsmen who create handmade products ranging from custom boots to saddles. The company has successfully navigated changing markets through strategic adaptations while maintaining its commitment to quality craftsmanship.
The production process remains proudly hands-on, with skilled artisans creating what they describe as "functional art" - items built for practical use while embodying heirloom quality. These products include:
Custom-shaped cowboy hats
Handcrafted saddles
Fine leather belts and buckles
Bespoke boots
What began as a small blacksmith shop has evolved through six generations of the Burns family, expanding from carriages and saddles to luxury Western wear with retail locations in multiple states and international shipping capabilities.
Relevance in Modern Culture
The television series Yellowstone has significantly boosted interest in Western fashion and lifestyle. Burns Saddlery developed an unexpected partnership with the show when costume designers discovered their Park City store during filming. This collaboration has continued throughout the series, with the company creating iconic pieces worn by characters like John Dutton.
The popularity of these Western elements on screen has driven substantial business growth:
Impact Factor Result Global Reach Shipping Yellowstone-inspired products worldwide Signature Items John Dutton's black hat among most requested products Industry Effect Revitalized interest in Western heritage goods
This media exposure has introduced Western aesthetics to new audiences while reinforcing appreciation among existing enthusiasts. The show's success has illuminated what the company's president calls "the new age Western era," bringing renewed attention to traditional craftsmanship and the cultural symbolism of Western wear.
The enduring appeal of Western style represents more than fashion - it connects to American values of independence and self-determination. This cultural significance helps explain why Western aesthetics continue finding relevance with modern consumers seeking authentic products with historical resonance.
Community and Legacy
Salina's Small-Town Influence
Burns Saddlery thrives in the heart of Salina, Utah, a small community that has proven ideal for their handcrafted Western gear operation. With 105 employees, including 60+ skilled craftsmen, the business represents a significant economic presence in this modest town. "We're really fortunate to live in a small community of Salena," notes company leadership, highlighting the deep connection between place and product. The town provides both heritage and skilled workers who understand Western traditions firsthand.
The company employs local artisans who take immense pride in their craft. For these craftspeople, seeing their handiwork on television or knowing it's shipped worldwide brings special satisfaction. "Hey, I did that," is a common sentiment among the skilled workers who meticulously create each piece by hand.
Western Heritage Contribution
Burns Saddlery stands as America's oldest family-owned Western shop, dating back to 1876 when Miles Burns established the business. Six generations later, the Burns family continues to uphold Western traditions while adapting to changing times. Their entrepreneurial journey reflects the very spirit of the American West—independence, innovation, and resilience.
The company's connection to popular culture, particularly through their work with the television series Yellowstone, has helped revitalize interest in Western heritage. "It's revitalized Western culture and helped the saddle industry, the hat industry, boot industry," explains a company representative. Their handcrafted items—from John Dutton's iconic black hat to custom boots and belt buckles—appear on screens worldwide, introducing new generations to Western style.
What began as blacksmithing and saddle-making has evolved into a significant cultural enterprise. The craftsmen create what they call "functional art"—items designed to be both beautiful and practical, standing up to the elements while looking distinctively Western. These heirloom-quality products carry forward an important aspect of American identity, keeping Western traditions relevant in contemporary life.
