Our story dates back to 1876 when our great, great, great grandfather laid the foundation of our family business, Burns 1876, as a humble blacksmith and harness repair shop in Central Utah. Through six generations, we’ve not only persevered but also evolved, adapting to changing times and challenges to become a trusted name in the leather industry.

From crafting items for the US government in the early 1900s to inventing Indian blanket seat covers for vehicles, our journey has been one of resilience and adaptation. Today, we proudly operate manufacturing arms in our small hometown of Salina, Utah, producing a range of quality products—from western saddles, fur felt hats, and boots to belts, belt buckles, and jewelry—all sold in our retail locations and mobile vending trailers.

But our passion extends beyond products; we are storytellers, publishers of a monthly leather industry magazine that captures the pulse of the leather community. We also host leather industry tradeshows and events, fostering connections and knowledge exchange among craftsmen and enthusiasts.

At the heart of everything we do is a deep understanding of the struggles and joys of being a craftsman and a small business owner. With nearly 150 years of expertise and experience, we curate the industry’s best online courses, led by the most talented craftsmen, empowering others to hone their skills and succeed in their endeavors.

Join us in celebrating tradition, embracing innovation, and shaping the future of craftsmanship. Welcome to Illume, where heritage meets excellence.