Want a perfect coat for hunting or just running errands in the cold winters months? Think of none other than Woolrich, the original outdoor clothing company.
Nothing can be more WASP/Preppy than their classic wool field coat. And trust me, their products can be considered heirlooms. I can attest to that as these two pictures are from my vintage duck hunting model dating back to the early seventies. Hopefully I too can pass this on to my one day offspring. The cool thing about this coat is that the interior has little pictures of a hunter and mallards.
I know what some of you are saying. This coat looks very similar to the Filson Mackinaw Cruiser. I does have similarities. This coat is synonymous with the outdoors in America. The rugged wool-blend (Filson model is 100% wool) shell wards off the fiercest weather. It's not only warm, but it sheds water, and the tight weave keeps out bone-chilling breezes. Two-piece sleeve for a roomier fit; knit storm cuffs in sleeves. Four outer snap pockets, plus hand-warmer pockets and internal security pocket. Full stowage pocket on back. Under-collar tab keeps collar up to hold out cold and breezes. For me the great thing about this product is that it is made in America right in Pennsylvania.
The company got its start in 1830 when John Rich, an immigrant from England, built his first woolen mill in Plum Run, Pennsylvania. Rich would visit the lumber camps that dotted the area and sell his woolen fabric, socks, coverlets, and yarn from a mule cart. By 1845, he built a new mill a couple of miles up the road next to Chatham Run, which provided a steadier source of water. That building exists today as part of the group of buildings, homes, and community establishments that have become Woolrich, Pennsylvania.
Rich could certainly not have imagined that his little woolen mill (created not long after the Revolutionary War) would go on to experience the Civil War, the Great Depression, two world wars, and the end of the Cold War. It would witness the beginning of the Industrial Revolution in America, the amazing growth of American cities, and the telecommunications revolution.
The modern day Wool Field Coat in traditional Red Tartan and green model below
Legend has it that Woolrich was the first company to use a zipper in men's trousers. The timeless Railroad Vest, introduced when the railroad was being built through Pennsylvania, is still a popular item. Another garment with roots back to the mid-1800's is the Buffalo Check Shirt that has kept many generations of outdoorsmen warm.
Technological developments, new production methods, and changing American lifestyles led to new products for all types of outdoor activities--all-wool bathing suits and wool golf knickers joined rugged coats for hunters and trappers. As America took to the roads in the early 1930's, Woolrich added automobile robes and steamer rugs for the more mobile society. Woolrich was contracted by the government to outfit Admiral Byrd's expedition to Antarctica in 1939, 1940, and 1941.
Eventually, the introduction of new high-tech materials allowed Woolrich to enhance the performance of its outdoor wear, meeting the needs of a new generation of enthusiasts. Traditional fabrics like wool and cotton teamed up with man-made fibers to create clothing that our customers could rely on for everything from a backpacking trip to a leisurely stroll.
Today the little village of Woolrich is still headquarters for the company, but the business has grown to a worldwide lifestyle company with a full range of outdoor-inspired products, from jackets and shirts to outdoor furniture. The company that provided blankets to the Union soldiers in the Civil War today keeps folks warm under its wonderful throws as they cuddle up by the fireplace. You can buy a wool jacket your great-great grandfather may have worn in the woods or a parka that's all about the latest in advanced technology. So if you want the true east coast slice of CLASSIC AMERICANA, Woolrich is the spot.
All Woolrich Products can be seen and purchased at www.woolrich.com
Posted By O. Cavanaugh
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