"An adventurous young man from Yorkshire, England, Thomas Kay, arrived in Oregon in 1863, bringing his exceptional fabric craftsmanship and emphasis for extraordinary quality," says Mort Bishop III, President, Pendleton Woolen Mills and great, great grandson of Thomas Kay. "After establishing a pioneer mill in Brownsville, he opened his namesake mill, the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill, in Salem, Oregon, in 1889. His daughter, Fannie, married Salem clothier C.P. Bishop, which has led to six generations preserving the family legacy of weaving fabrics in Oregon." Setting the standard for classic American style, Pendleton is recognized worldwide as a symbol of American heritage, authenticity, and craftsmanship. Pendleton owns and operates two of America's remaining woolen mills, constantly updating them with state-of-the-art looms and eco-friendly technology. Inspired by its heritage, the company designs and produces apparel for men and women, blankets, home decor, and gifts.
