The Art of Leather: Exploring Tanneries Across the USA

JJ Turbo June 14, 2023

The process of tanning, transforming raw animal hide into durable, long-lasting leather, is an age-old craft that remains a vital part of the fashion and manufacturing industries today. The United States is home to several notable tanneries, each with their unique style, process, and commitment to quality. In this blog post, we'll explore a few of these distinguished establishments. These tanneries support leather brands like Schott NYC, Legendary USA, Cockpit USA.

1. Horween Leather Company, Chicago Horween Leather Company, founded in 1905, is one of the oldest continuously running tanneries in the United States. Over a century old, Horween maintains its commitment to the tradition of tanning, producing some of the finest leathers in the world. Renowned for their Shell Cordovan, a type of leather derived from horsehide, they also produce Chromexcel, a pull-up leather loved for its rich color and soft feel.

2. Wickett & Craig, Pennsylvania Established in 1867, Wickett & Craig is one of the leading North American producers of vegetable-tanned leather. This method of tanning uses natural tannins found in tree bark and leaves, resulting in a high-quality leather with a distinctive look and feel. Wickett & Craig is well known for their equestrian leathers, which are durable yet supple, perfect for saddlery and other riding equipment.

3. Hermann Oak Leather, St. Louis Founded in 1881, Hermann Oak Leather has been a stalwart in the leather industry, committed to producing high-quality, vegetable-tanned leather. Initially known for their harness leathers, they've expanded their offerings to include a wide range of leather products. Their dedication to maintaining traditional tanning methods while embracing innovation makes them a standout in the industry.

4. S.B. Foot Tanning Co., Minnesota Owned by the renowned boot maker, Red Wing Shoes, S.B. Foot Tanning Co. has been in operation since 1872. Their tanning process, which takes over a month to complete, produces durable, high-quality leather that's used not just for Red Wing's famous boots but also for belts, bags, and other leather goods.

5. Maverick Leather Company, Oregon Though not a tannery itself, Maverick Leather Company deserves a mention for their role in providing high-quality, unique leathers to craftspeople across the country. They offer a diverse range of leathers, sourced from premium tanneries, including Horween and Wickett & Craig. Their commitment to quality and variety makes them a vital resource for artisans and manufacturers alike.

Each of these tanneries brings something unique to the table, whether it's a commitment to traditional tanning methods, a focus on specific types of leather, or an innovative approach to sourcing and processing hides. They play an essential role in providing high-quality materials for a variety of products, from jackets and boots to bags and belts. Their work ensures the continuation of a rich heritage of craftsmanship and artistry in the leather industry.