About Kepner Scott

In 1888, at the height of the Industrial Revolution, Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania was beginning to emerge as a footwear manufacturing hub. By 1913 Orwigsburg was home to 11 shoe manufacturers collectively producing over 1.4 million pairs of children’s shoes annually. In 1913, Miss Elsie Hartman was elected Secretary/Treasurer of Kepner Scott. Elsie eventually purchased Kepner Scott. This was really remarkable at the time because Elsie led the company through a period of time where women did not have the right to vote, as well as the great depression and two world wars. In 1961 our great-grandfather, Milo Zimmerman, was forced into early retirement. From designing to manufacturing and selling, Milo had 40+ years in the shoemaking experience. In the 1960’s the children’s shoe market was dominated by stiff and uncomfortable welted shoes. Comfort and flexibility were being sacrificed for durability. Milo believed children needed soft, flexible, and comfortable shoes. Milo and his son Clair, our grandfather, embarked on a mission to design and craft healthier children’s shoes. Eventually our dad, Steve, and aunt Sue joined the company. Today the company is run by Milo's great-granddaughters, Audrey & Addie Zimmerman. Each pair is cut, sewn, and lasted with both imported and domestic materials in our historic factory. We focus on comfort, fit, and flexibility when crafting each pair. We're proud to call ourselves 4th generation shoemakers & carry on our families shoemaking legacy.Read their story