Walking Through Main Street, USA: Heritage Shop Moc Oxford Honors a Legacy

In the quaint town of Princeton, Kentucky, a family legacy unfolds one step at a time, echoing the rhythmic cadence of shoe repairs and the timeless tradition of providing the perfect pair of boots—running parallels to the family-owned heritage at Red Wing Shoe Company.

The heart of this story beats with the Coleman family, now in its fourth generation of proudly serving their community and specially selected to showcase the Red Wing Heritage Spring/Summer Shop Moc Oxford collection that releases on Tuesday, March 5th.

Generations of Craft:

Owned by Dana and Ronnie Coleman, the store is not just a business; it's a family affair. Photos adorn the walls with each generation displayed proudly.

It all began in 1917 when Monroe Coleman, Sr., a visionary and craftsman, set up a shoe repair shop in Princeton. The legacy continued with Monroe Coleman, Jr., known affectionately as Junior, who expanded the business in 1946. Ronnie Coleman took ownership of the family venture in 1981, and today, the torch is carried forward by the fourth-generation, Allison Herndon.

Allison’s picture dates to when she was still a young girl, standing proudly next to Ronnie in her bright pink winter coat. She now oversees the store purchasing and accounting, and leads the charge alongside Addison Peek, the indispensable go-to gal. Together, they form the A team, ensuring the legacy thrives with a seamless blend of tradition and modernity.

"I completely fell in love with working with my family and connecting with customers. I decided this was my future because it’s what I love," says Allison.

From Shoe Repair to Boot Bootleggers:

The journey from shoe repair to selling boots had its unique twists. In the early 1980s, the family would travel hours to Lebanon, Tennessee, earning them the endearing title of "boot bootleggers." The acquisition of the current store's location in 1985 marked a significant milestone, further expanded with a move in 1986 after substantial improvements.

The family's resilience was tested in 2004 when a fire ravaged the store, claiming inventory and memories. Yet, with the support of the community and local churches, they salvaged the shoe repair machinery, rebuilt, and reopened within months.

Every Boot Has a Story:

Step into Coleman's Shoe Store, and you'll find more than just footwear. It's a place where customers are welcomed as family, their stories and needs taken to heart. The store isn't just a retail space; it's a living narrative of Princeton's history and a testament to the impact family-owned businesses—including Red Wing Shoe Stores—have made for local communities across the country and the world.

Red Wing Heritage footwear isn’t just bought; it’s part of a generational tale, laced with craft, resilience, and a commitment to community—one step at a time.

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