Eastland
Eastland is a family-owned American footwear company founded in 1955 and based in Freeport, Maine. It makes casual shoes for women and men, best known for the camp moc.
| Founded | 1955 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Jonas B. Klein |
| Headquarters | Freeport, Maine |
| Signature product | Camp moc |
| Ownership | Family-owned |
| Website | eastlandshoe.com |
What is Eastland?
Eastland is a casual footwear company founded by Jonas B. Klein, incorporated on 30 November 1955 and still headquartered in Freeport, Maine. It describes itself as family-owned for three generations.
History
- 1955: began making leather beaded moccasins for national retail chains and mail-order companies.
- 1976 to 1977: launched its first branded line, Easy Steps, with boat shoes, then renamed the brand Eastland.
- 1987: the Eastland Knot camp moc collection became popular, and three Maine factories employed over 750 people.
- 1990: manufacturing expanded to Italy, Brazil and China.
- 1998: first retail website launched.
- 2010: Made in Maine collection introduced, using domestically sourced components.
Products and positioning
Eastland makes casual footwear known for handsewn construction, full-grain leather and Americana-inspired styles. Its best-known product is the camp moc, which customers personalise with the Eastland Knot. Boat shoes, boots and chukkas complete the range.
Why it matters
Eastland is one of the long-running Maine shoemakers, and it kept a domestic line alive while moving most production abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Eastland from?
Eastland is an American footwear company headquartered in Freeport, Maine.
Who founded Eastland?
Jonas B. Klein founded Eastland, which was incorporated in 1955.