About
The history of G.H. Bass & Co. dates back to Maine in 1876 and George Henry Bass- a man on a simple
mission to make the very best shoe. In 1936, G.H. Bass & Co. put a stylish spin on a Norwegian farm
shoe designed for “loafing in the field,” and playfully dubbed them Weejuns – introducing the world’s
first penny loafer. From strolling across college campuses to doing the moonwalk, Weejuns have been
found on industrious feet ever since.
1876On March 9th George H. Bass begins in the shoe making business in Wilton, Maine. 1887Bass moves his factory from Wilton, Maine to Wilson Stream in Framington, Maine in order to utilize water-powered machinery for faster production time. 1892Bass develops the “National Plow Shoe” allowing farmers to wear them year-round. 1906G.H. Bass becomes incorporated. The first Bass moccasin is made and called the "Bass Moccasin Cruiser", designed to be worn by woodsmen. |
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Bass markets it's first catalogue catering to River Drivers, Guides, Cruisers and Sportsmen, embracing the "For Hard Service" moto. |
“Rangeley”style moccasin is created. This style becomes the standard moccasin for campers and outdoorsmen. |
Bass aviation Moccasin Style 773 becomes the official |
1927Charles A. Lindbergh wears a pair of Bass flying boots in the first transatlantic flight from New York to Paris, which lasted 33 hours, 30 minutes & 29.8 seconds. 1928Over the course of the next 10 years, Admiral Richard E. Byrd wears Bass Boots during 3 expeditions to Antartica. He was the first to reach both the North & South Pole by air 1930Famous golfer Bobby Jones plays a Grand Slam wearing Bass Sportocassins, winning all of the golf's major championship in the same calendar year.
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The first penny loafer in history is introduced – Bass |
1940-1941OThe original suede "Buc" style is created as an updated version of Weejuns with laces. During WWII , Bass developed a cold-weather boot for the U.S Army's 10th Mountain Division. 1948Bass outfits the American Olympic Ski Team with Footwear. 1862-1967The Weejuns craze sets in, resulting in enormous growth and business. Weejuns Are seen as mainstream and part of everyday pop culture. Bass launches the women's "Sunjun" sandal. 1976-1977The “Bass 100” is developed in celebration of Bass’ centennial, selling 1 million pairs. |
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Michael Jackson wears black Weejuns in the opening of |
In spring, the Bass Compass canvas shoe is introduced. |
Bass’ signature Weejuns are more in demand than |
