WHO WE ARE
THE HIGHEST QUALITY AND SAFEST FLOW CONTROL EQUIPMENT SINCE 1933.
Hello, my name is Gerard Danos, and I’m honored to serve as the third leader of Dixie Iron Works, LTD., an Alice, Texas company proudly in business since 1933. I’m privileged to follow in the footsteps of our founder, Frank Ussery, and his successor, Joseph Merritt, who also co-founded Manifold Systems Incorporated (MSI) in 1987—now our primary product line.
From day one, Dixie built its reputation as South Texas’s quality machine shop. You don’t earn 92 years in the oilfield business by chance—it takes an unwavering commitment to product excellence, customer satisfaction, and respect for employees. That dedication has been recognized throughout our history: we earned the very first API 6A license (Serial #1) in 1988, and achieved ISO 9001 certification in 1993—well before it became the industry standard.
Today, our mission is clear: Constantly improve safety and efficiency in the upstream oil and gas industry to remain the premier high-pressure flow control provider. We design and manufacture valves, fittings, well service pumps, and other flow control equipment in our three U.S. facilities, with global distribution from our locations in Texas, Louisiana, Alberta, and 13 partner stocking points worldwide.
We still manufacture every piece of equipment in the USA—because we believe that’s how to deliver the quality our customers expect. I invite you to explore our website and contact us with any questions, ideas, or feedback.
Thank you for reading,
OUR HISTORY
For 92 years, MSI has delivered practical, Texas-made flow control solutions for the toughest oilfield environments.
WHERE WE STARTED
Frank W. Ussery was the original owner of Dixie Iron Works, Ltd. He started the business for $1,500. Production began in Longview, Texas.
GROWTH
Growth came fast. In 1936, the business was moved to Freer, Texas. Two years later, a second shop was opened in Alice, Texas.
MOVEMENT
Then, the Alice location became the permanent home for Dixie Iron Works.
EXCELLENCE
For decades, our team has built Texas-tough equipment that keeps the oilfield running with precision, pride, and practical know-how.
EXPERIENCE
Built by Texans, backed by experience.
PIPER PARTNERSHIP
Piper Oilfield Products has been the master representative for MSI/Dixie Iron Works, Ltd. for the better part of the United States for over 30 years!
MSI IN CANADA
In 2004, we expanded further. Our MSI team in Red Deer has proudly supported Canada’s oilfield operations for 20 years and counting.
92 YEARS STRONG
From a single machine shop in South Texas to field operations across North America, we’re proud to build gear that’s proven in pressure and rooted in Texas grit.
