My Ray Jones Collection: A Legendary Craftsman
Fifteen years ago, I had my first encounter with Ray Jones—not with the man himself, but one of his lifelong clients in central Texas. This was one of my first experiences with truly handmade, made-to-measure cowboy boots, and I was immediately captivated. The gentleman took immense pride in his Jones boots, and from that moment, my journey of building, collecting, and appreciating the art of western boot-making began.
Ray Jones, a renowned bootmaker from central Texas, was known for his consistency, attention to detail, and dedication to his craft. He started his career in the 1960s, crafting boots for working cowboys who needed durable, stylish, and functional footwear that could stand up to the demands of ranch life. His legacy spans over three decades, and during that time, he made thousands of pairs of boots, many of which have become prized possessions for collectors like myself.
What makes Ray Jones' boots so special is their timeless design and construction. Most of his work featured slick box or French calf boots, as well as roughout leather with toned tops that usually matched the vamps. His stitch patterns, while uniform across thousands of pairs, were each subtly unique, varying only in color and material selection. This classic silhouette and style, combined with uniform designs and a reputation for consistency, made Jones boots a favorite among western enthusiasts who sought vintage boots with heritage and style.
Today, my collection of over 25 pairs of Ray Jones boots stands as the cornerstone of my identity as a craftsman. Each pair represents a physical link back to my heritage in western bootmaking, and I take great pride in preserving these iconic pieces of history. Some of the boots are in pristine condition, a testament to Jones’ skill and dedication. One pair with bright green suede tops and a red stitch pattern came from a collector in New York, while another, a pair of dark brown working cowboy boots, was found abandoned in an old shed, its true value unknown to the owner. None of Ray Jones’ boots bear a label, which makes identifying them all the more special for collectors like me.
Ray’s legacy is one of determination and consistency, a reminder of the care required to build a solid working cowboy boot. His craftsmanship was a reflection of the "good old days," when quality truly mattered. Despite making thousands of boots over his career, many of his pairs have been lost to the passage of time, worn down by the cowboys who depended on them for their day-to-day work. To find a pair in excellent condition today is a rare and valuable discovery, often fetching thousands of dollars—more than ten times their original price.
At Parker Boot Company, we carry the mantle of Ray Jones' craftsmanship into our own boots. Like Jones, we understand the importance of making durable, stylish boots that working cowboys and western enthusiasts alike can rely on. Our dedication to traditional techniques and high-quality materials is a tribute to bootmakers like Ray, who set the standard for what cowboy boots should be. Whether we’re building bespoke boots for a client or restoring an old pair, we strive to honor the same values of integrity, style, and grace that made Ray Jones a legend in the world of cowboy boots.
As I continue to hold each pair of Ray’s boots, I am reminded of my time in his town, learning the trade and honing my craft. His boots serve as a compass, guiding me toward maintaining the same level of quality and craftsmanship that he embodied. At Parker Boot Company, we are proud to keep his legacy alive, creating boots that not only meet the demands of life but also stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of boot-making.
