John Justin

Inducted 1994

Now Chairman of the Board and CEO of Justin Industries, Inc., Fort Worth, Texas, John Justin began his working career in the boot factory, Justin Boot Company, founded by his grandfather in 1879 at Spanish Fort, Texas. After attending Texas Christian University, he borrowed funds in 1938 to start the Justin Belt Company.

He re-entered the boot business in 1949, becoming the President of Justin Boot Company three years later. He was soon to revolutionize its policies, product line and marketing to build it into a national firm. In 1968, the Justin Boot, Belt and leather goods companies merged with Acme Brick Company to form what is now Justin Industries, Inc. Mr. Justin became CEO of the company in December 1969, and began transforming Justin Industries into a public company, with sales exceeding $450 million.

John Justin has remained active in civic, service and social organizations, receiving numerous awards and recognitions. Some of his awards include Salesman of the Year, Fort Worth for 1970; Man of Vision Award for 1983; Man of the Year, Pro Rodeo-American Cowboy Magazine for 1983; Citizen of the West Award for 1990; and the Charles Goodnight Award for 1992. He was Chairman of the Committee which raised money for the Will Rogers Equestrian Center in Fort Worth. Mr. Justin was Mayor of the city of Fort Worth from 1961-1963.

Mr. Justin and his wife, Jane, Have two children, Mary and David. An amateur photographer and a licensed pilot, he also enjoys horseback riding.