This Charming Western Store In Denver Is Loaded With History
By Laura Konrade
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Published February 08, 2018
From authentic cowboys to movie stars and famous musicians, many look to this iconic Denver store found in the heart of the city for their western apparel needs. At Rockmount Ranch Wear, customers not only stop by for clothing and accessories, but also to personally witness a legendary business that has been making history since it first opened its doors in 1946.
Rockmount continues to operate their flagship store and warehouse from the same building where it all began in the LoDo neighborhood of Denver.
The 35,000 square foot, 5-story building was built in 1909 and is a historic landmark in the Mile High City.
Rockmount manufactures shirts, hats, and accessories (and much more) that are sold world-wide.
This three generation family-owned business is famous for creating and popularizing western wear designs that have become standard in today's industry.
It all began with Jack A. Weil who was known for his spirit, his stories, and his sense of humor.
Jack worked daily until he was 107 years old, passing away in 2008.
What he left behind to his son and grandson was so much more than simply a store.
Rockmount is truly a western icon because of the mark that it has made on today's fashion.
Jack A.'s son, Jack B. had an influential role in spreading western wear's popularity across America as he focused on the area east of the Mississippi River.
When Jack B.'s son, Steve (3rd generation) became a part of the business, he helped Rockmount Ranch Wear grow with international sales.
Jack A. Weil is credited with inventing the diamond-shaped snap fasteners on Western shirts.
The breakaway function that these snaps create allows cowboys to get loose more easily if their shirt happens to get caught on something.
The sawtooth-flap pockets that he also designed were both stylish and functional (fastening better to secure contents inside).
Rockmount was also known for their slim fit cut shirts that were less likely to get in the cowboys way when in the "thick of things" with their ranch work.
These innovative designs made Rockmount a western icon that popularized western wear as it became more well known in both American fashion and abroad.
Rockmount's clothing appears in dozens of films from Elvis classics to present-day blockbusters.
The walls of the store are filled with pictures and write-ups that pay tribute to many famous names who have selected to wear Rockmount's signature design.
Rockmount's signature look, the western shirt with diamond snaps and sawtooth pockets, is the longest production shirt design in America and is even in the permanent collection at the Smithsonian Institution.
It is, as you can see, loved by cowboys of all ages.
If you haven't already visited this iconic Denver store, make your way to 1626 Wazee St. in Denver, CO 80202 and pick up a one-of-a-kind western shirt and a little local history as well.
Take a look at Rockmount’s website for more details.
Do you have any stories about shopping at Rockmount Ranch Wear that you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments below.
Take a look at these other stores that have had a historical presence in the Mile High City: 7 Stores That Anyone Who Grew Up In Denver Will Undoubtedly Remember .
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1626 Wazee St. in Denver, CO 80202