Our u3a trip to the Clarks Shoemakers Museum in Street on 14th January got off to a great start with blue skies and the sun shining brightly on us.
The museum was officially opened to the public in 2025 and celebrates 200 years of shoe making history. Telling the story behind Clark's shoes in the very place where it all started in Street, Somerset by two Clark brothers. Shoemaking progressed from making hand- made leather shoes at home to the factory floors and together with the introduction of synthetic materials – it revolutionised shoes and their appearance.
Particularly impressive is the range of its exhibits over four galleries. From fossils, shoe installations, foot measuring devices – (remembered by us all), factory machinery and colourful art depicting its marketing strategy over the years. From first fitted shoes at Clarks to the Northern Soul Dance Floors of the 1960's to the Britpop scenes of the 1990's. The museum also benefits from a coffee and gift shop.
The family brand became a global story and highlighted the Quaker influence that was part of its ethos. Over the decades C & J Clarks along with their Peter Lord branches became a feature of British culture – where shops were visible in many towns.
Sadly, the company closed its last domestic factory in 2019 when the UK shoe industry declined moving its production abroad. Although the Clarks Shoe Headquarters still remains in Street. Some retail therapy in Clarks Village ended what was a thoroughly enjoyable and informative experience.
Geraldine (Gerry) Tassell