Harris Western Center Company Background

George Harris, founder and President of Harris Western Center, learned as a boy how to hand make boots and saddles. Working in his father’s saddle shop, George was taught the skills known only by the most proficient leather workers.

In 1958, After serving in the U.S. Navy, George opened his own business in the south Texas town of Lytle, near San Antonio. As the business grew, George moved Harris Western Center in 1972 to its present location, still in Lytle, on the heavily traveled Interstate 35, the main artery from San Antonio to Laredo.

The store grew in size over the years to accommodate a compete line of western wear, featuring such famous brands as Wrangler, Tony Lama, Resistol, Justin, Panhandle Slim, Walls, and more. The large trailer compound adjoining the store contains horse, livestock, cargo, utility and flatbed trailers by S&H, Cherokee and other well-known brands.

A second trailer location, named E-Z Pull, was established in 1997 in San Antonio. The same brands found at the Lytle location, are stocked at the E-Z Pull location on Interstate 10.

Harris Western Center is also the respected area headquarters for a complete line of tack items, including finely crafted saddles and accessories.

Taking an active role in his industry, George served as Chairman of the Western and English Retailers of America in 1985. He is Past President of the San Antonio Livestock Exposition, serving in that capacity in 1987-1988.

George was named Resistol Retailer of the Year in 1984 and Area Wrangler Retailer of the Year in 1990.

George is also an active pilot. His twin-engine aircraft are hangared in nearby Castroville giving him quick access to the skies for both business and pleasure flying. His passion for aviation has extended to his family. Both his son and daughter-in-law are licensed pilots.

Jolinda Harris Richards learned the ropes of the business while still in high school. Working weekends and holidays, she became acquainted with every aspect of the business. Part of her duties, bookkeeping, led to studies at Texas A&M University in Business Management.

In June 1981, Jolinda returned to the family business where she spearheaded the design of a complete computer system for the business. Today, she heads the computer operations system. She is also actively involved in the accounts receivable and purchasing, including special orders.

Scott Harris also began his experience with Harris Western Center while a student in high school. After graduation, Scott attended Southwest Texas Junior College in Uvalde, Texas, where he earned his pilot’s license. and an Associate’s Degree in Airframe & Powerplant.

After completion of his college studies, Scott returned to work at the family business. While working full time, Scott also attended Hallmark Institute to earn an Associate’s Degree in Airframe & Powerplant.

Today Scott is primarily involved in trailer sales but also heads up a division of Harris Western Center, Rodeo Air. His duties include aircraft sales, refurbishing aircraft and test flying.