Made in the U.S.A.
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 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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 An American success story unfolds. In 1907, production is 100 pair per day. By 1915, production tops 200,000 pair. WWI soldiers are issued the Red Wing No. 16. |
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 In 1918, J.R. Sweasy becomes 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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 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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 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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 As America begins building and working again, Red Wings gain popularity all across the country. |
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 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 for the 1963 catalog. |
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 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 companies in the East. |
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 By 1985, production reaches nearly 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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 From a tiny corner shop started in 1905, Red Wing Shoes, 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 pair by hand each day, Red Wing Shoes, Inc., will continue to provide comfort, quality and durability for the next hundred years. |
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