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The
History of Mayatex
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Joyce
Dobkins founded Mayatex, Inc., in 1944. After graduating Valedictorian
in her class from Texas Tech University, Joyce, at the age of
33 purchased an automobile in New York City and drove by herself
to Guatemala on the newly opened Pan-American Highway.
While living in Guatemala she became very knowledgeable of Mayan
culture and textiles. Her love of the native textiles prompted
her to start her own weaving business with her sister, Carmen
Drake.
Their first major success was the famous hand woven Guatemalan
skirt, which was sold at Neiman Marcus and later in stores throughout
the United States. The dyeing and weaving techniques they developed
in their factory are still being used today in Guatemalan weavings.
In 1959 Joyce and Carmen moved the business to El Paso, where
they began a "Cottage Industry" weaving saddle blankets
in Juarez, Mexico. During the years Joyce and Carmen developed
innovative design and weaving techniques that set the standard
for woven saddle blankets, tapestries and floor coverings. |
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Joyce
actively worked in the business until the age of 83. In August
of 2003, Joyce passed away at the age of 91. She is sorely missed.
The business that was started by this very modern and adventurous
woman continues to thrive and is held in high regard within
the equine industry.
Today, Mayatex™ is owned and operated by James Drake and
Pi Crowley who strive to create new and innovative hand woven
saddle blankets from quality craftsmen though-out the world.
Mayatex™ takes care in designing each saddle blanket,
making sure that not only will each design be pleasing to the
eye but also satisfy the needs of both horse and rider.
Generations of knowledge have been put into the designing and
manufacturing of our products and we make sure each product
is made to quality specification.
Commitment to design, quality and service is our standard of
operation. Direct from the weaver to you. |
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