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

Weinbrenner's Legacy: A Century and a Half of Quality Craftsmanship

Albert H. Weinbrenner, at just 27 years old, opened a cobblery in Milwaukee in 1892, partnering with Joseph Peffer to serve the "Jobbing" trades. This marked the humble beginnings of what would become a renowned footwear brand.

In 1900, the Albert H. Weinbrenner Co. was officially formed. The company soon distinguished itself, printing its first catalog in 1916 and boasting more leather cutting machines than any other in the United States. That same year, Weinbrenner introduced its innovative "Job-fitted" concept, and the brand became a major contributor of boots to the U.S. Army during World War I.

The company took its first steps into safety footwear production in 1938, and in 1942, Weinbrenner celebrated its 50th anniversary by converting its entire operation to military footwear for the duration of World War II. The sturdy combat and dress styles proved popular with civilians as well.

In 1943, Weinbrenner workers organized under the International Boot & Shoe Workers Union, yet the management-labor relationship remained strong. This enduring partnership would prove crucial to the brand's longevity.

One of Weinbrenner's most iconic products, the Hike n' Camp boot, was introduced in 1964. Featuring a wedge sole and moccasin-style stitching, it became the company's best-selling boot and is still available today in its original design.

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

In 2000, the company transitioned to employee ownership through an ESOP. Just a year later, Weinbrenner donated 500 pairs of durable work boots to Ground Zero in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.

The 1892 Heritage line of handcrafted lifestyle boots was introduced in 2014, while 2017 marked Weinbrenner's 125th anniversary and a renewed commitment to upgrading its domestic facilities and operations.

Today, Weinbrenner, now operating as Thorogood, continues to innovate. In 2022, the company opened a new factory in Merrill, Wisconsin, and launched its first western wear product, the Square Toe Wellingtons. As Thorogood's popularity grows, the brand looks towards a future filled with new styles and continued excellence in American-made footwear.

product information: