Thorogood Men's 1977 Series Waterproof 6 Briar Pitstop Moc Toe with Maxwear Wedge

Thorogood, a renowned brand with a rich 130-year history, has a legacy of crafting exceptional footwear for the working class. Let's explore the brand's remarkable journey:

In 1892, at the young age of 27, Albert H. Weinbrenner, along with his partner Joseph Peffer, opened a cobblery in Milwaukee, serving the "Jobbing" trades. Just eight years later, in 1900, the Albert H. Weinbrenner Co. was officially formed.

The company's dedication to innovation and quality was evident as early as 1916, when it printed its first catalog and boasted more leather cutting machines than any other in the U.S. This pioneering spirit continued in 1917 with the introduction of the "Job-fitted" concept, and Weinbrenner became a major contributor of boots to the U.S. Army during World War I.

In 1938, the company took its first steps into the production of safety footwear, and in 1942, it celebrated its 50th anniversary by converting to all-military footwear for the duration of World War II, producing both combat and dress styles. Interestingly, the military footwear also became popular with civilians during this time.

The company's strong relationship with its workforce was showcased in 1943, when the company workers organized under the International Boot & Shoe Workers Union, and management and workers maintained an outstanding relationship through the years.

Landmark achievements continued, such as the introduction of the iconic "Hike n' Camp" boot in 1964, which became the company's best-selling boot of all time. In 1988, the company was purchased by a local group, including six employees, and the "ThoroGard" division was created, featuring high-tech occupational safety footwear.

Weinbrenner celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1992 with the theme "A Century of Lasting Quality," and in 2000, the company's employees took ownership through an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan).

The brand's commitment to supporting the community was demonstrated in 2001, when Weinbrenner donated 300 pairs of durable work boots to Ground Zero within three days of the September 11 attacks, followed by an additional 200 pairs.

In 2014, the "1892 Heritage" line of handcrafted, lifestyle boots was introduced, built on the iconic No. 60 last. And in 2017, Weinbrenner celebrated its 125th anniversary with a renewed commitment to upgrading and improving its domestic facilities, machines, equipment, manufacturing methods, and computer systems/programs.

Today, Weinbrenner, now known as Thorogood, continues to be a leader in the industry, celebrating 130 years of excellence in 2022 with the opening of a new factory in Merrill, WI and the launch of its first western wear product, the Thorogood Square Toe Wellingtons. As sales continue to increase and the brand expands with many new styles on the horizon, Thorogood remains committed to its core values of craftsmanship, innovation, and comfort, providing job-fitted boots for a wide range of industries and occupations.

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