History Behind the Business & the Name
Shorty's Bear Safety Service, Inc. was opened in 1960 by James H. Bryant (Shorty) and Eugenia Bryant at the current location of 2801 S. Osage in Amarillo, Texas.
The name ‘Shorty’s Bear Safety Service Inc.’ came from a combination of the owner’s nickname “Shorty” and Bear, who was the leader in
alignment equipment when the business was opened in 1960. At the time, if you used Bear equipment, Bear allowed automotive shop owners to use their logo to allow for nationwide recognition, especially in regards to travelers. In many small towns, you will see shops with a bear logo either called ‘Safety Lanes’ or ‘Safety Service’.
Originally Shorty’s was a front end and suspension specialty shop when it opened in 1960.
Shorty passed away August 20, 1965 at which time his wife Eugenia leased out the building and business until December 1980.
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