Thorogood Men's GenFlex Gen-Flex2 Series – 8 Brown Composite Safety Toe – Side-Zip Wellington

Weinbrenner's Legacy: A Century of Craftsmanship and Innovation

In 1892, at the young age of 27, Albert H. Weinbrenner opened a cobblery in Milwaukee, partnering with Joseph Peffer to serve the "Jobbing" trades. This marked the humble beginnings of a company that would go on to become a pillar of American footwear manufacturing.

Over the following decades, Weinbrenner's business grew steadily. In 1900, the Albert H. Weinbrenner Co. was officially formed. The company's first catalog was printed in 1916, showcasing its impressive collection of leather cutting machines, the most in the United States at the time.

The year 1917 saw the introduction of Weinbrenner's innovative "Job-fitted" concept, which would become a hallmark of the brand. During World War I, the company made significant contributions to the U.S. Army, providing high-quality boots for the troops.

Weinbrenner's foray into the safety footwear market began in 1938, and the company celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1942. Throughout World War II, the focus shifted to producing combat and dress styles exclusively for the military, though these shoes also gained popularity with civilians.

In 1943, the company's workers organized under the International Boot & Shoe Workers Union, but the management-worker relationship remained strong and continues to this day.

The iconic "Hike n' Camp" boot, introduced in 1964, became the company's best-selling model and is still available in its original design.

In 1988, Weinbrenner was purchased by a local group, including six employees, who created the "ThoroGard" division focused on high-tech occupational safety footwear. The company celebrated its centennial in 1992 with the theme "A Century of Lasting Quality."

Ownership of Weinbrenner transitioned to its employees through an ESOP in 2000. In the aftermath of the September 11th attacks in 2001, the company quickly donated 300 pairs of durable work boots to Ground Zero, followed by an additional 200 pairs.

The introduction of the "1892 Heritage" line of handcrafted, lifestyle boots in 2014 and the launch of the first Western wear product, Thorogood's Square Toe Wellingtons, in 2022, demonstrate Weinbrenner's commitment to innovation and diversification.

Today, as Weinbrenner celebrates its 130th anniversary, the company continues to invest in its domestic facilities, equipment, and manufacturing processes, ensuring the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. With a renewed focus on upgrading and improving its operations, Weinbrenner is poised to embark on the next chapter of its storied legacy.

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