Founders, Walter and Bundy Illsley came to Uruapan, Michoacan, Mexico in 1954. Keenly interested in the development of small industry as well as being enthusiastic supporters of artisans, the Illsleys found themselves in the midst of a group of equally enthusiastic young traditional weavers in the mountains of Michoacan, land of the Purhepecha Indians. They made use of the available cotton grown in the nearby Apatzingan valley and the generous support they received from local industries and suppliers. Design ideas adapted to modern taste combined with the skill and joy of weavers, artisans who had inherited the tradition from parents and grandparents, launched Telares Uruapan on its now almost 50 year history of specialty weaving in only natural fibers. Many participants of the original group continue working side by side with their sons and daughters, as well as those who have recently joined the team.