The history of Sole Survivor dates back to the late 60′s when leather craftsman Steve Rye (aka the Sole Survivor) began pedaling his goods to acquaintances, boutiques, and head shops. During that time he was one of many leather craftsmen across the country.
Thru the 70′s Steve and his wife Kay traveled around the country selling their goods at festivals and craft fairs, making brief stops to setup seasonal shops in New Orleans and Bradenton, FL. During their time in Florida the country was heading into a recession. So, to supplement their income Steve picked grapefruits and oranges while Kay worked at the concession stand of the Pittsburgh Pirates winter home.
By the early 80′s the couple returned to their native home and opened shop in Saint Louis, Missouri. By this time Steve was one of the few leather craftsmen left; truly a sole survivor of the industry.
Today, Sole Survivor Leather products are bench made by a team of skillful craftsmen in historic downtown Belleville, IL. The products are available at our retail store Sole Survivor Leather & Shoes, as well as boutiques across the country and around the world. Because of a growing demand in the U.S. and foreign markets especially Japan the Sole Survivor Leather brand will continue to be a sole survivor.