A Family Venture on the Open Road (The 1970s)
Our story begins not in a boardroom, but on the open road, fueled by family spirit. After serving in the Army in 1970, our founder, Paul Trachy, settled on the banks of Fox Creek in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains by 1976. To support his growing family, what started as selling leather goods at swap meets and drag races quickly became a family affair. Paul, his wife, and their children all pitched in, working the circuit together. This hands-on, family-driven approach laid the foundation for a business built on hard work and a deep understanding of the riding community, experienced firsthand by the entire Trachy family.
To read Paul’s full, unfiltered account of these early days, click here
Forging an American Original from Family Roots (1983)
This shared dedication and growing passion for quality gear led to the official establishment of Fox Creek Leather in 1983. From these family-rooted beginnings, a core principle guided us: an unwavering commitment to authentic American craftsmanship. While others began chasing cheaper overseas production, we held fast to the belief that quality, durability, and fair practices mattered most. We sought out the best American craftsmen, many of whom we still partner with today, building relationships that have lasted decades.
Riding into the Digital Age (1999)
The landscape of commerce changed, and so did we. Recognizing the power of connecting directly with riders everywhere, we launched our first website in 1999, bringing Fox Creek Leather into the digital age. This allowed us to offer our premium, American-made gear directly to you, ensuring fair prices without the middleman markup.
Growing Our Home, Celebrating Our Riders (2007-2010)
Our growth continued, and in 2007, we expanded, renovating and relocating to the Black Rock Motel, giving us more space to serve our customers and refine our craft. This deep connection with our riders and dedication to the community sparked the first Fox Creek Leather Customer Appreciation Ride in July 2010.
What began with about a dozen bikes has blossomed into the annual "Fox Tail Ride," an event drawing over a hundred motorcycles and enthusiasts from across the country—and sometimes even internationally—to experience the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and the camaraderie of fellow riders. It’s more than just a ride; it’s a celebration of loyalty, adventure, and the shared spirit of the open road, a tradition we cherish.
Our Unwavering Commitment, Rooted in Heritage (Today)
Today, Fox Creek Leather stands as a testament to enduring American quality, still grounded in those early values of hard work and customer focus. We craft many of our signature items in our own Virginia workshop and partner with specialized American artisans to ensure every piece of gear meets the highest standards. Our mission remains unchanged: to deliver exceptional, American-made leather goods directly to riders, combining premium craftsmanship, personalized service, and a commitment to gear that’s built for a lifetime on the road.