Shoe manufacturer Hawkins Inc was founded in 1850 by GeorgeThomas Hawkins . Originally started as a cottage industry, in 1883 Hawkins got down to serious business and in 1885 the construction of a factory at a location on the Overstone Road, Northampton was started. That same year it was producing riding boots for the Queen, earning it the highest honour of that era, the Royal Warrant, which is still proudly displayed above corner entrance.
By 1899 the factory was supplying military boots for the troops fighting in the Boer War and by 1904 it had released its first full catalogue. The First World War saw orders for aviation boots and in 1916 GT Hawkins changed to a limited company with Edward H White joining as a director.
During the Second World War Hawkins was to supply aviation boots for Mosquito and Spitfire pilots and during the Korean War it was instrumental in designing waterproof durable boots for the troops and it was this design that became the catalyst for developing walking boots.
In 1953 Hawkins supplied the mountain boots used by the first team to successfully ascend Mount Everest.
In 1982 it supplied the British Troops fighting in the Falklands Conflict. It finally closed its doors after 120 years of trading, in 1995, and has been empty ever since.
Explored in the good company of James and Blackeagle.
Thanks for looking I would like to ask that anyone wishing to visit G.T Hawkins to contact me prior to their visit.
By 1899 the factory was supplying military boots for the troops fighting in the Boer War and by 1904 it had released its first full catalogue. The First World War saw orders for aviation boots and in 1916 GT Hawkins changed to a limited company with Edward H White joining as a director.
During the Second World War Hawkins was to supply aviation boots for Mosquito and Spitfire pilots and during the Korean War it was instrumental in designing waterproof durable boots for the troops and it was this design that became the catalyst for developing walking boots.
In 1953 Hawkins supplied the mountain boots used by the first team to successfully ascend Mount Everest.
In 1982 it supplied the British Troops fighting in the Falklands Conflict. It finally closed its doors after 120 years of trading, in 1995, and has been empty ever since.
Explored in the good company of James and Blackeagle.
Thanks for looking I would like to ask that anyone wishing to visit G.T Hawkins to contact me prior to their visit.
