Tracing its origins to the 1840s, Gallun Leathers’ story began with the ambition of a young German immigrant seeking opportunity and freedom in a new land. Immersed in the leather trade from an early age, he ventured to America in 1854 and, after diligently working for four years, set down the foundation of what would become a leather empire in Milwaukee.
The evolution of the Gallun name in leather tanning involved significant collaboration. The young immigrant, August F. Gallun, partnered with Albert Trostel to establish Trostel & Gallun in 1858. However, partnerships evolve, and in due time, August F. Gallun embarked on an independent venture, marking the inception of A. F. Gallun & Sons.
Albert F. Gallun, a pivotal figure in the legacy, played a monumental role in steering the company’s direction. By the 1890s, he took the reins as president and continued in this capacity until his retirement in 1928. Under his leadership, and alongside his brother Arthur, the company explored cutting-edge tanning techniques from around the world. Their commitment to innovation was unmatched. They were regarded as leading authorities on the science of leather tanning and were credited as pioneers in adopting the chrome method of tanning.
In a testament to their forward-thinking approach, shortly before World War I, the Gallun brothers established a groundbreaking research department at Columbia University, dedicated to the tanning industry. This endeavor, a collaboration between A. F. Gallun & Sons and the university, further cemented their reputation as industry trailblazers.
Beyond the confines of leather, Albert F. Gallun’s influence extended to the financial sector, where he held a directorial position at the Marshall & Ilsley bank.
By 1933, leadership transitioned to the third generation with Edwin A. Gallun stepping in, navigating the company through some of history’s most challenging epochs, including the Great Depression and World War II.
Douglas A. Gallun, representing the fourth generation, joined in 1955. He, much like his ancestors, was intimately involved in the raw material selection, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to unparalleled quality.
Despite facing considerable challenges, notably the volatile rawstock market and growing competition, Gallun Leathers held steadfast to their motto, “Always Standards of Excellence.” Their enduring legacy, however, faced a brief pause in 1993 due to market dynamics.
New life for a historic brand
Despite facing considerable challenges, notably the volatile rawstock market and growing competition, Gallun Leathers held steadfast to their motto, “Always Standards of Excellence.” Their enduring legacy, however, faced a brief pause in 1993 due to market dynamics.
Yet, the Gallun legacy was too resilient to fade. Ed Gallun, representing the fifth generation, reignited the Gallun spirit, relaunching Gallun Leathers. Today, with a blend of rich history and innovative approaches, the company crafts exquisite calf, wild boar, and stag leathers, ensuring the Gallun name continues to shine in the world of leathercraft.
