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Lee Mercantile Company was founded in 1889 by Henry David Lee in Salina, Kansas.  In the world of denim and work wear, the company has been an innovator in materials and products.  Lee was the first to put zippers on denim clothing, slide fasteners on bib overalls, and to use a “Hair on Hide” leather label.  Lee also created its own “Jelt Denim,” “Lee Whizit Zipper,” “Hickory Striped Denim” and “Color-Fast Herringbone Twill.”

In the 1920s, Lee began using the Buddy Lee doll, dressed in miniature Lee outfits, in its promotions.  In the 1940s, the company was America’s leading producer of work clothes.  At the same time, the brand-distinguishing Lazy S stitching pattern was used on the back pocket of its jeans to mark the brand.  Later in the 1950s, Lee expanded its manufacturing to casual wear.

Since the 1960s, Lee’s products have included western wear, work clothes, as well as items catering to the fashion market. Some of the most famous and innovative items Lee has produced over the years include the 101 and 101J (for Jelt) denim jeans and jackets, Loco railroad jackets, Lee Union-All coveralls, Lee Riders and Lee Storm Rider Jackets.