About Us

Our Story

What began decades ago as a small, family-run business has grown into one of the region’s most trusted names in transportation and travel.

Southwest Coaches, Inc. traces its roots back to Gordon and Myrtle Nelson, who started the company by purchasing school buses from the Marshall School District. In those early years, the business operated under the name Nelson Bus Sales and Service, offering school bus transportation, a taxi service, charter buses, and school bus leasing.

In 1965, with Morgan and Harriet Wigley joining as shareholders, the company was renamed Southwest Coaches, Inc. and relocated to Fairview Street a few years later. Growth continued when Charles and Patsy Hey purchased the business in 1974. Under their leadership, and with Marvin and Janet Hey joining the operation, Southwest Tours was born—introducing organized one-day and extended motorcoach tours for travelers.

The late 1970s brought more expansion, with a new facility built on Highway 23 South to house offices and buses. Marvin and Janet Hey purchased the company in 1988, guiding it into a new era of growth. By the early 1990s, the company had extended its reach with the acquisition of Wells Bus Service and Sunset Travel in Jackson, MN, and in 1993, became a full-service travel agency with the addition of airline reservations.

In 2000, ownership passed to Thomas and James Hey, continuing the proud family tradition. Today, Southwest Coaches, Inc. and Southwest Tour & Travel proudly serve communities with reliable transportation, unforgettable motorcoach tours, and comprehensive travel services—carrying forward a five star legacy of excellence, family values, and a passion for travel that has spanned generations.