- In order to escape the
doldrums of a bureaucratic research position with the federal
government in Washington, DC, Alan McKinnon started a small leather
shop in March of 1969 near the Eastern Market on Capitol Hill.
He was soon joined by Ann Marie. The shop's origins in the late
sixties set the tone in the early days: sandals, floppy hats,
visors, wide belts and other hippie delights. During the bicentennial
year of 1976, the McKinnons moved their family and business to
Damariscotta, Maine. Most shops from that era are gone and most
that survived simply sell manufactured goods, but Alan and Ann
Marie continued to produce at least half of what they sold.
-
- Over the years the McKinnons
developed an expertise in fine leather work. The crude construction
and styling of the 60's and 70's evolved into finished leather
bags, cases, appointment books, briefcases, small accessories,
and belts.
-
- Now that Alan is a bone
fide septuagenarian the desire for a slower pace has emerged.
In late summer of 2012, Alan and Ann Marie decided to close the
Main Street store at year's end. In order to produce a retirement
income and to stay somewhat connected to a lifetimes' work, Alan
will continue to produce the same belts now well known.
|
