Early Mt. Pleasant Shoe Makers and Tanners

Because of the need for shoes, one of the most important useful industries was leather tanning. 

A tannery was established by James Porter on the east side of the street, First West between Main and First South, and here with others, John Wallis was employed. Wallis, a professional tanner, also operated a tannery on his lot, Main Street and Third East. He did splendid work and was a great help to the community. 

Later, N. P. Nielsen, usually known as Pete Tanner, set up in a smaller way an establishment on his lot in the western part of the city.

 Still, later, a stock company was organized, for which certificates were issued and stock in the company was sold. This company was located on twin Creek and was later run for a number of years by Emanuel Christensen. 

 

While there were a number of shoemakers, one of the first shoemakers the community knew was Siginale, who lived and worked inside the fort for many years. With the coming of the leather industry, the need arose for more up-to-date shoemakers, and in due time a company shoe shop was established on the south side of Main, between Main and First West. 

The organizers of this company were Carl G. Bjelke, A.P. Oman, Peter Nielsen, Jacob Hafen, Jens Hendersen, and Job Green. This company was not alone in making of shoes; Peter Andersen and Rasmus Hansen were busily engaged in making wooden shoes which were preferred by many. 

Information is taken from "History of Mt. Pleasant" by Hilda Madsen Longsdorf.