Regis Location History
Our corporate office/warehouse is located just south of downtown Dallas in a building with a trail of history. We started business at 1516 Corinth in 1959; as our business grew, we needed additional space and moved into our present facility at 1500 Corinth in 1980.
Frank Kehr purchased the historic Compton Citadel Salvation Army building, originally constructed in 1937, for Regis' new headquarters. The building was originally named for C. V. Compton, a prominent Dallas attorney, who was active in its establishment.
According to the news accounts from 1937, the building "was not a relief agency, but more of a community clubhouse. It contained game rooms, sewing rooms, classrooms, and last but not least, a public washroom where a woman may do the week's wash." In the latter part of 1938, Mr. and Mrs. Compton added a large gymnasium and craft room to the Citadel.
The enlarged community center was to serve a neighborhood that was lacking in adequate facilities for social activities. The Dallas press quoted "Mr. and Mrs. Compton have acted wisely and generously in both establishing and enlarging this community center."
When the gymnasium was dedicated in January, 1939, the auditorium was equipped through the generosity of Sears Roebuck & Company. Later a full library was added with the donation of over 500 books along with two additional frame buildings that were adjoining the Citadel to house a nursery school and lodging for one of the adjutants in charge of the center.
When Frank purchased the building, the architectural plans included keeping the original gymnasium floor. Our main warehouse is located in that gymnasium where the wooden floor still remains from 1939. If you're ever in the Dallas area, feel free to stop by our facilities for a "nostalgic" tour.
Our Philosophy
"Treat People the way you want to be treated and do what you say you're going to do."
Our business began in 1959 in Dallas, Texas as the dream of Frank and Mary Kehr. As we conclude our 54th year of business, we hope to continue the philosophy that started this business- treat people fairly and do what we say we will do while delivering shop supplies that are reasonably priced and ensuring prompt delivery.
Regis changed ownership in late 2009, when I acquired the company from Mary Kehr after Frank's death in 2007. We realize the past couple of years have been a challenge, but with our quality staff, loyal customers, and competent suppliers we were able to successfully continue our growth.
My staff and I would like to personally thank you for your loyal support for the past 50+ years and hope that we can continue to meet your expectations in the future. You have helped us build Regis Manufacturing into what it is today and we look forward to continuing our relationship with each of you.
I would ask that you, our loyal customers, let us know what else we can do to better serve you. Having worked at Regis with Frank periodically through the years and also being involved in the performance arena as a drag boat builder and racer, I am well aware of the many challenges you face in your daily business and am eager to assist you in meeting your goals. I welcome the opportunity to hear from you with any concerns or suggestions.