OUR STORY
Cotton Gin Smokers was founded by Matt Messer, a West Texas native who grew up as a pastor's son with a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and community. Matt’s journey into the world of barbecue began in 2001, when he built his first smoker in shop class—a project that would unknowingly set the stage for his future. Fast forward two decades, and Matt now owns one of America’s top-selling drum and offset smoker companies. In January 2025, Matt teamed up with his good friend Aaron Norris of Norris Thermal Technologies to launch Live Fire and Smoke, a company that unites three brands under one roof: Cotton Gin Smokers, Tribal Fire Grill, and Game Changer Smoker. All three brands are proudly crafted in Tippecanoe, Indiana, and offer high-quality, innovative grilling products. For more information, visit www.livefireandsmoke.com.
Meet MATT,
Matt Messer, the founder and owner of Cotton Gin Smokers, began his journey in 2019 in the basement of his home, handcrafting drum smokers with a simple vision—to build high-quality, dependable cookers that brought people together around great barbecue. What started as a small, faith-driven passion project quickly grew into something much larger. Today, Cotton Gin Smokers, along with the other Live Fire and Smoke brands, has become one of the leading names in the outdoor cooking industry, providing top-tier products for both backyard enthusiasts and professional pitmasters. Matt’s dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and his mission to glorify Christ through his work continues to drive the company’s success and inspire a growing community of barbecue lovers across the nation.
Meet Aaron,
Aaron Norris is the President of Norris Thermal Technologies and a builder at heart—combining industrial engineering with a passion for live-fire cooking. He develops and supports Beltomatic dryers, holds multiple patents (including the smoke generator on the Game Changer smoker), and is known for turning practical challenges into real-world solutions. Outside the shop, Aaron designs smokers, collaborates on the Live Fire and Smoke brand, and competes in high-level events like the SCA World Championship. Whether improving industrial systems or perfecting a steak, he brings the same curiosity, skill, and commitment to excellence.
OUR TIMELINE
2018
first shop in the old Cotton Gin in Amory, MS.
2020
The Sower, Reaper and Harvester drum smoker line was created.
2021
CGS is moved out of the basement and into first shop in South Bend, IN. First 500 gallon offset trailer was created.
2023
Cotton Gin BBQ Supply store opens.
2025
Cotton Gin teams up with Tribal Fire Grill and Game Changer Smoker and Live Fire and Smoke was Born.
MADE IN AMERICA