By Julie Johansen
It is the 20 year anniversary of San Rafael Works, a custom saddle shop and cowboy cooking operation owned by Jon and Cindy Judd.
Jon and Cindy started producing custom leather work in 1979, making historic reproductions for museums and western artists. In 1996, they opened San Rafael Works. Jon currently has a two-year waiting list for custom western saddles. They also do saddle repairs, chaps, chinks, bridles and saddle bags that are built to the customer’s specifications. The newest line of products are Jon’s handmade engraved sterling silver buckles, conchos and jewelry.
The Judds started their catering business to meet the needs of their extended family and friends for reunions, weddings and other gatherings. Today, 75% of their cooking business takes them out of Emery County. They travel the state from St. George to Park City and into Colorado preparing thousands meals on site for corporate events and private parties. Many of their events are scheduled a year in advance. Their menu items include grilled steak, ribs, chicken and pork. Side dishes are potatoes, rice, mac and cheese, and their popular campfire beans. Each meal also includes salad, dessert and their famous sourdough rolls. Each client chooses the menu items they desire for their function.
San Rafael Works is also your local dealer for Western Ag hay tarps and H2 Hobble Creek Stock Products livestock panels and barn components.
Word of mouth has kept their business growing over the years. Jon and Cindy say the nicest part of their business is that they do it together.