Stewart Williamson grew up on his family's ranch in eastern New Mexico. His family ran cows on the ranch, stocker cattle on leased country, and preconditioned feeder cattle to be finished out in commercial yards. This allowed Stewart to get an early education in many aspects of the cattle business. After graduating from high school in 1978, he continued to cowboy, both on his family's ranch and on numerous other ranches in the area. He also started colts, shod horses, and ran cattle of his own. In 1993, Stewart bought a place of his own and built a 1200 head feedyard which he ran for over ten years.
Quality cowboy gear, especially California style pieces with intricate engraving have fascinated Stewart since childhood. In early 2003, he attended Johny Weyert's beginning engraving class in Alpine, Texas and was hooked. He practiced diligently and sought tips from makers whose work he admired. He is grateful to several fellow makers, including Wilson Capron, Jerry Falkner, Russell Yates, and Joe Spiller for sharing their knowledge of the craft and encouraging him in his endeavors. He also gives credit to his wife Toni for her support.
In 2004, Stewart sold the feedyard so he could devote all of his time to building gear and engraving. He and Toni moved to Portales, NM and he opened a shop. Stewart's goal is to make pieces that are both functional and pleasing to the eye. He continues to study the craft and strives to make each new piece better than the last one.
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