American Heroes: Susan Maddox
Susan Maddox is a fearless leader with an infectious personality, Texas-sized smile and wife of the late Keith Maddox.
At the early age of 18, Susan was instructing aerobics during her college years in Torrington, Wyoming where she was scouted by Brenda Van Newkirk and asked to work in the Snubbing Post. Not knowing an ounce of the western industry, she immediately took the challenge and succeeded. During her 7 years at the Snubbing Post, Susan attended the western markets alongside Brenda Van Newkirk and this is also where she met and fell in love with Keith Maddox. Had she not taken the job offer on a whim, she would not be the person she is today and this only showcases her lust for life and adventure.
In 1987, Susan made the jump and moved down to Texas, where Keith was traveling for Tony Lama. What would transpire following the move, can only be described as an entrepreneur roller coaster adventure. The first company founded in 1988 was Sierra Oil & Gas Company in Keller, Texas.
Following the success of Sierra Oil, the next endeavor was opening The Best Hat Store in 1996 in the Historic Stockyards in Fort Worth, Texas. The Best Hat Store, was Susan’s next adventure in the western industry and proved that she could do anything she put her mind to, her perseverance was not to be faulted. The Best Hat Store is still operating after 23 years and is a highly visited attraction with the best quality hats.
In 2003, Susan and Keith purchased the long, sought-after, American Hat Company in Conroe, Texas and quickly moved it to the quaint town of Bowie, Texas. Following the move, American Hat Company was back on track to become the highest quality hat company and helped to flourish the town.
Not only has Susan become a mogul in the western industry, she has also greatly achieved in her personal life. Susan was a dedicated and loving wife to Keith Maddox for 32 years and they had two daughters, Treasure and Mercedes. Susan has been very instrumental in helping to shape their successful lives as young adults and is a passionate parent. She is also involved in The Met Church, located in Keller, Texas.
As a woman of many traits and qualities, Susan is an inspiration to all not only in the western industry but all industries. She is a class act that is notorious for her positive outlook, friendliness and sophisticated style. Susan will continue to oversee American Hat Company with the same passion Keith has always had and promises to keep the best quality out there in the market. As one chapter has closed, we are proud to introduce Susan as the Matriarch of American Hat Company.
