history
craftsmanship
other Red Wing brands
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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1950-1959
As America begins building and working again, Red Wings gain popularity all
across the country.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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1990-Today
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 three 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.
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