Mount Vernon Mills has announced a strategic partnership with KaKa Cotton, LLC, that will see the acquisition and relocation of 45 historic Draper X3 shuttle looms. These iconic machines, renowned for producing some of the finest selvedge denim in the world and once fixtures at the legendary White Oak Plant in Greensboro, North Carolina, are set to find a new home at Mount Vernon Mills’ flagship facility in Trion, Georgia, marking a significant step in the revival of traditional American selvedge denim craftsmanship.

The move comes as Mount Vernon Mills, celebrating its 180th anniversary, reinforces its legacy as one of the longest-standing textile manufacturers in the United States. This strategic initiative underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to American manufacturing and its deep roots in textile heritage.

In addition to the storied Draper X3 looms, Mount Vernon Mills is also acquiring 45 Picanol President shuttle looms to further expand its selvedge denim weaving capacity. This combined investment significantly boosts the company’s ability to meet the growing demand for authentic, U.S.-made selvedge denim.

“We are honored to carry forward the legacy of American selvedge denim craftsmanship,” said Bill Rogers, President of Mount Vernon Mills. “This partnership with KaKa Cotton allows us to blend heritage with innovation, and we’re excited about the opportunities it brings for our community, our customers, and the broader U.S. textile industry. This is more than a business decision — it’s a commitment to American manufacturing and the enduring spirit of American textile excellence.”

The relocation effort follows the recent closure of Vidalia Mills, which had previously operated the Draper X3 looms. With the facility shuttered, Mount Vernon Mills and KaKa Cotton acted swiftly to ensure these vital machines remain in operation on American soil, preventing their potential dispersal or export.

These newly acquired looms will undergo restoration and be integrated into a dedicated production line at the Trion facility, focused exclusively on premium selvedge denim. Operations are expected to commence in early 2026. The initiative is also projected to create new skilled jobs in Trion and is anticipated to attract significant interest from denim enthusiasts and heritage brands seeking authentic, high-quality U.S.-made fabric.

This marks a pivotal moment for the U.S. textile industry, safeguarding a crucial piece of its history while propelling Mount Vernon Mills into a new era of specialized high-quality denim production.

Founded in 1845, Mount Vernon Mills is one of the oldest and most respected textile manufacturers in the United States. With a rich history spanning 180 years, the company remains dedicated to producing high-quality fabrics and industrial goods, upholding a legacy of innovation, quality, and American craftsmanship. Its flagship facility in Trion, Georgia, continues to be a hub of textile excellence. KaKa Cotton, LLC specializes in strategic partnerships and investments within the textile industry, focusing on preserving heritage manufacturing assets and fostering growth in American textile production.