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Barker Shoes, an English heritage brand with a history spanning 140 years, epitomizes the artistry and excellence of traditional shoemaking. The brand's commitment to craftsmanship is evident in the careful selection of premium leathers and the meticulous hand shaping of uppers. By adhering to time-honored techniques like slow natural drying and polishing, Barker achieves a distinctive quality that sets their shoes apart from mass-produced alternatives. Since its establishment in 1880 in the village of Earls Barton, Barker has been synonymous with impeccable footwear, serving as a beacon of perfection in a rapidly evolving industry.
The Barker legacy began with Arthur Barker, a skilled boot maker who started his business in a small cottage at the heart of England's shoe manufacturing region. Arthur's innovative waterproof peg-sole boots gained significant popularity, leading him to enlist craftsmen from neighboring villages to meet the growing demand. Embracing the future, Arthur invested in a factory at the turn of the century and secured contracts to supply boots to the British army during World War I. Throughout the interwar years, Barker expanded its presence under the guidance of Arthur's three sons, venturing into new markets and territories. The brand's dedication to quality and craftsmanship propelled its success.
In 1987, Barker took another leap forward by constructing a modern factory and offices in Earls Barton, utilizing local brick and stone. The factory, built to exacting standards, reflects Barker's unwavering commitment to producing fine English shoes. Designed to optimize leather grading, color matching, and stitching, the factory provides a favorable environment for the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Barker shoes. Situated at the heart of the British Shoe Making Industry, Barker's factory stands as a testament to the brand's heritage and the region's rich shoemaking legacy.