William Raymond Ross
William Raymond Ross, The Tailor
The history of William Ross and his tailoring business as written by Mrs. Ross
"Williiam Ross began his trade working for Nick Linz as a hatter, cleaner. And presser for 16 years. After that length of time, he decided to go into business for his wife, his children and himself. He opened his own cleaning plant in 1936 catering to the city of Austin. It was a successful business for he was a well-known man and did his work efficiently. He made hats out of row felt, did all sorts of alterations, had suits and trousers tailor made to fit anyone who so desired. He guaranteed all his work, causing him to get much more trade than the average shops. In order for the students in college to have their work done as often as they needed. They were allowed a special price on everything that they had done. He had a solicitor from each college, allowing them an opportunity to make a percentage on their business and at the same time they got their work done free of charge."
The William Ross Story
Born in Austin, Texas, September 16, 1890 at the corner of Chicon and Rosewood. His daddy was a farmer and cook. His mother took in washing an ironing. His parents were William Ross and Hattie Shackleford. He finished the Anderson school at age 14. He began cleaning and pressing neighborhood clothes at home and blacking hats on an old water bucket. He worked for John Warren at the corner of 11th and Congress street after school.
Biggest shop in town, Nick's Linz became known for artistic work. He made $35 per week when average wages was $10. he kept $10 for himself and gave the other to his wife for a household and saving. Begin, making felt hats at his shop that sold for $25.00.
Saved hat profits and went into partnership with Ismael Dotson at 400 Block of East sixth street while stll at Nick's Linz. in 1938 he opens his own shop at Rosewood and Leona, with a lot of Nick's patronage following him. No formal music training, play by ear, play guitar flute and piano. Hired 3 employees plus his family. Also, Tillson and Sam Huston college girls who got percentage of all their work plus their clothes done free.