Cowtown Edmonton

In 1908, Robert John Welsh, set up shop on 96th Street selling “settlers’ effects” - horse harnesses, axes, pails, shovels – to Alberta’s early homesteaders. Welsh’s was known primarily for its harness and saddle making, and in the late 1950s added western wear to the inventory to become a fullfledged western supply store.

R. J.‘s son Lloyd took over from his father and worked in the store for 52 years. And then the third generation of the Welsh family owned and operated the store. Bob and Gary Welsh and sister Sherry Worton succeeded their dad, Lloyd, as owners in the early 1990s.

They witnessed tremendous changes in the retail industry over the years, and expanded and changed the business in tune with the economy and with emerging trends. Welsh’s Saddlery and Western Wear did operate three locations in Edmonton – one in west Edmonton, their 20,000 square foot store on Manning Drive, and their newest location in South Edmonton Common. They believed that customer service is what sets them apart in the retail business, and also what contributes to Welsh's ongoing success. In addition to success in attracting new customers, they also served the same customers for close to 30 years and they are quick to say that it’s service that brings them back into the store.

In keeping with their western theme, they are proud to say that they are “Branded to the Community” - At Welsh's, connecting with the community is still as much a part of their philosophy as it was when R.J. Welsh first started the business in 1908. Their hands on commitment and attention to detail goes into everything they do in the store and they pride themselves in extending this same commitment into the community by supporting numerous fine organizations.