history
craftsmanship
other Red Wing brands
|
 |
1905
Charles H. Beckman organizes the Red Wing Shoe Company in the
quiet river town of Red Wing, Minnesota. The first boot sells
for $1.75. |
 |
1906-1917
An American success story unfolds. In 1907, production is 100
pair per day. By 1915, production tops 200,000 pairs annually.
World War I soldiers are issued the Red Wing No. 16. |
 |
1918-1929
In 1918, J.R. Sweasy becomes the general manager and in 1921,
the president of Red Wing Shoes. For the next three decades,
Sweasy steers the company successfully through two world wars
and the Great Depression. |
 |
1930-1939
On October 18th, 1929, Black Friday sends the country deep into
depression. To save money on coal, workers burn scrap leather
to stay warm in the factory. |
 |
1940-1949
Red Wing's legendary quality and durability again catches the
eye of the U.S. Military. Red Wing begins manufacturing boots
for soldiers, making 239 different sizes and widths for the
Army alone. |
 |
1950-1959
As America begins building and working again, Red Wings gain
popularity all across the country. |
 |
1960-1969
Norman Rockwell creates a series of drawings for Red Wing Shoes.
Les Kouba, a young artist who would later become famous for
his wildlife art, also is commissioned by Red Wing Shoes for
the 1963 catalog. |
 |
1970-1979
With the oil industry booming, the late 60's and 70's became
a time for global expansion. Red Wing Shoes enters Canada, Mexico,
South America, Europe and a number of oil producing countries
in the East. |
 |
1980-1989
By 1985, production reaches two million pair. The factory expands
for the third time and adds a night shift at both plants. Red
Wing Shoes expands its products to over 150 styles, serving
every industry imaginable. |
 |
1990-2000
From a tiny corner shop started in 1905, Red Wing Shoe Company,
Inc. has grown into the most respected manufacturer of hard
working boots and shoes around the globe. Today, with four facilities
and hundreds of craftspeople making thousands of pairs by hand
each day, Red Wing Shoe Company, Inc. will continue to provide
comfort, quality and durability for the next hundred years.
|
|
