Emerson Shoes – a Family Footprint of More than a Century

Emerson Shoe Company was founded in Rockland, Massachusetts, in 1900 by William Emerson, a skilled shoemaker who had had a history of working for other shoe companies in the area. Management, while passed to a line of direct descendants, also included other Emerson family members, such as Charles Oliver Emerson. The company began as a small operation, producing only a few styles of shoes, but with a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship.

Honest All Through

Emerson Shoe Company has historically distinguished itself from its competition through its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. From its founding in 1900, the company has focused on producing footwear that is both durable and comfortable, using the finest materials and the latest technologies. Their advertising slogan of the early days was: “Honest All Through”.

One key factor that sets Emerson’s products apart is their attention to detail. The company’s skilled shoemakers take pride in every stitch, ensuring that each shoe is made to exacting standards of quality. Emerson’s shoes are also known for their durability, with the company using high-quality materials and construction techniques to ensure that each pair lasts for years.

Another factor that distinguishes Emerson’s products is their versatility. While the company initially focused on producing men’s dress shoes and work boots, it later expanded its offerings to include a wide range of styles for both men and women. Emerson’s shoes are designed to be both stylish and functional, with features like cushioned insoles and shock-absorbing soles that make them comfortable to wear all day.

Finally, Emerson Shoe Company has distinguished itself from its competitors through its commitment to innovation. The company has invested in new technologies and materials over the years, developing new products like orthopedic shoes and custom-made footwear. This commitment to innovation has allowed Emerson to stay ahead of the curve and continue to meet the changing needs of its customers over time.

Through the Years

In the early years of the company, Emerson focused on producing men’s shoes, including dress shoes and work boots. The company’s shoes were known for their durability and comfort, and soon became popular with workers in a variety of industries.

During World War II, Emerson Shoe Company shifted its production to meet the needs of the military. The company produced combat boots and other footwear for soldiers, and played an important role in supporting the war effort.

After the war, Emerson Shoe Company expanded its offerings to include women’s shoes as well as men’s. The company continued to emphasize quality and craftsmanship, and its shoes became a staple of American fashion in the postwar era.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Emerson Shoe Company faced increasing competition from foreign manufacturers, who were able to produce shoes more cheaply. To stay competitive, the company shifted its focus to more specialized and high-end footwear, including orthopedic shoes and custom-made shoes.

Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Emerson Shoe Company continued to innovate and adapt to changing market conditions. The company developed new technologies and materials, and expanded its offerings to include a wide range of styles and sizes.

Today, Emerson Shoe Company is still based in Rockland, Massachusetts, and remains a family-owned business. The company’s shoes are still known for their high quality and durability, and continue to be popular with customers around the world.

Stayed in the Family

Emerson Shoe Company has been owned and operated by the Emerson family since its founding in 1900. William Emerson, the company’s founder, was succeeded by his son, George Emerson, who took over as president of the company in the 1940s.

George Emerson’s son, William “Bill” Emerson, Jr., took over as president of the company in the 1970s. Under his leadership, Emerson Shoe Company continued to innovate and expand, introducing new technologies and materials, and developing new product lines.

In the 1990s, Bill Emerson’s sons, William III and David, joined the company and began to take on greater roles in its management. In 2001, William III was named president of Emerson Shoe Company, succeeding his father in the role.

Under William III’s leadership, Emerson Shoe Company has continued to adapt to changing market conditions and evolving consumer preferences. The company has expanded its offerings to include a wider range of styles and sizes, and has invested in new technologies and production methods to improve efficiency and quality.

Today, Emerson Shoe Company remains a family-owned business, with William III serving as president and his brother David also playing an active role in the company’s management. The company has a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, and continues to be a leading producer of high-quality, American-made footwear.

Competition

Emerson Shoe Company faced competition from a variety of other footwear manufacturers over the years. Some of the company’s key competitors included:

Alden Shoe Company: Based in Middleborough, Massachusetts, Alden Shoe Company is known for its high-quality men’s dress shoes and boots.

Johnston & Murphy: Founded in Newark, New Jersey, in 1850, Johnston & Murphy is a maker of high-end men’s shoes, including dress shoes, casual shoes, and boots.

Florsheim Shoes: Florsheim Shoes, founded in Chicago in 1892, is known for its stylish men’s dress shoes and boots.

Red Wing Shoes: Red Wing Shoes, founded in Red Wing, Minnesota, in 1905, is a maker of high-quality work boots and other footwear.

Clarks Shoes: Based in England, Clarks Shoes is a global footwear company known for its stylish and comfortable shoes for men and women.

Emerson Shoe Company has remained committed to making its shoes in America. The company has a long-standing tradition of producing high-quality footwear in its factory in Auburn, Massachusetts, and has continued to do so to this day.

Emerson Shoe Company takes pride in its American-made products and the quality craftsmanship that goes into each pair of shoes. By producing its footwear in the United States, the company is able to closely monitor the production process and ensure that every shoe meets its exacting standards for quality and durability.