From humble beginnings in a small Detroit loft to an iconic workwear brand that is known and respected across the world, 2024 marks 135 years of Carhartt.

Founded in 1889 by travelling salesman Hamilton Carhartt in Detroit, Michigan, Carhartt began life as a small company dedicated to producing durable workwear for railroad workers. Armed with just two sewing machines, a half-horsepower electric motor and five employees, the company’s initial operation was modest to say the least, yet Hamilton Carhartt’s vision and dedication to quality and customer satisfaction laid the foundation for what has become the most respected name in workwear and its motto of ‘honest value for an honest dollar’ is as relevant now as it was back then.

Back to the future

Every company needs a mission statement and from the outset Carhartt was committed to understanding and meeting the needs of workers. In fact, the company’s first products were overalls, designed with the input of the railroad workers who would wear them. These garments were made from denim and duck canvas and featured triple-stitched seams and heavy-duty rivets – innovations that quickly set Carhartt apart in the crowded workwear market.

The reputation of Hamilton Carhartt’s workwear quickly spread and soon it wasn’t just those on the railroads who were wearing his clothing. With demand from tradespeople and manual workers across various industries, the early 20th century was a period of rapid expansion for the company. It built multiple factories across the United States and Canada including major facilities in Detroit and Ontario. As well as increased production and the ability to reach an even broader audience, Hamilton Carhartt was also a pioneer in improving working conditions within his own factories, ensuring fair wages and safe working environments.

Weathering the storm

During World War I, Carhartt produced uniforms for American soldiers, further establishing its reputation for reliability and quality. Then the Great Depression hit and, after having enjoyed almost three decades of continual growth, the company suddenly faced significant challenges.

Meeting these challenges head-on, the company stayed true to its core market and continued to adapt and innovate. Carhartt’s customer-centric approach was revolutionary for the time and set the foundation for its reputation for quality. Designed to withstand the rigors of farm and ranch work, the introduction of the Carhartt Chore Coat in 1923 exemplified this and it remains an enduring symbol of Carhartt’s dedication to meeting the needs of working people.

When Hamilton Carhartt tragically died in 1937 in a car accident it was his son, Wylie, who took over the business. World War II marked another critical period for Carhartt, as the company once again contributed to the war effort by manufacturing uniforms for the military. With the post-war era bringing significant industrial growth in America, Carhartt was well positioned to meet the demands of the expanding workforce and introduced new products such as insulated coveralls and specialised work jackets that empowered hardworking people to get the job done.

Cultural icon

Carhartt has always understood the importance and power of advertising and promotion. The Carhartt logo, designed in the 60s, became instantly recognisable and the following two decades saw Carhartt transition from a well known trade brand into the cultural icon it is today. This shift was fuelled by the growing popularity of the Carhartt jacket, particularly the Detroit Jacket, among blue-collar workers, outdoor enthusiasts and eventually, mainstream consumers.

While the company’s core market was, and always will be, tradespeople, over the years its appeal has expanded to include a wide range of consumers who appreciate its rugged style and authenticity. Over the last 30 years Carhartt’s reputation for durability and quality has resonated across a broad audience, leading to its adoption by diverse groups ranging from hip-hop artists to skaters and hipsters.

For more information on the Carhartt range, click here

Your chance to win an exclusive Carhartt limited edition beanie! 

To celebrate 135 years Carhartt has produced a limited edition of its iconic beanie. Each beanie is sealed and contains a scratch card, which has a code that can be checked online. The big question is: who will get a unique code for a Golden Beanie? One lucky winner will receive a wonderful tour around the Great Lakes of America, the birthplace of Carhartt! Terms and conditions apply.

For more information on the Carhartt range visit www.carhartt.com

PEW has 10 Limited Edition Beanies to giveaway. For your chance to win enter below: