The Little-Known Story Of The Stormy Kromer In Wisconsin And How It's Made A Big Comeback
By Ben Jones|Published January 31, 2024
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Ben Jones
Author
Ben Jones is at heart an adventurer who delights in inspiring others. A former reporter and photojournalist, he explored towns large and small as a Wisconsin correspondent for USA Today. He later became a lead photographer and senior copywriter for an award-winning destination marketing agency, before founding Boldland Creative, a company that produces photography, video, and other content for travel destinations. Jones has completed photography and content projects in more than 15 states and when he’s not looking through a camera or at his Macbook you’ll find him exploring the world’s lakes and forests.
There’s a piece of apparel that you’ve probably seen in Wisconsin, and it’s the opposite of fast fashion. The iconic Stormy Kromer hat, made across the border in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, can be spotted in all corners of the state these days. You’ll see it in remote corners of the Northwoods, as well as urban places like the heart of Milwaukee. While this simple wool hat is made in Michigan, it’s a true Wisconsin classic, with a Dairy State history that stretches back more than a century. Here’s what you need to know about Wisconsin’s Stormy Kromer hat.
The Stormy Kromer hat has a rich history in Wisconsin, dating back to the early 1900s. The hat was created by George "Stormy" Kromer, a railroad engineer from Wisconsin.
The Kromers founded the Kromer Cap Company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The company initially produced the Stormy Kromer cap for railroad workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone in need of a warm and functional hat.
Even bigger than this giant Stormy Kromer hat in Minocqua!
The Stormy Kromer company is now headquartered in Ironwood, Michigan, and it still produces big quantities of the classic hat, along with many other high quality apparel items.
It operates an online business, and its products can be found in Wisconsin outdoor stores. Or visit its Ironwood headquarters in person!
I’m a fan of Stormy Kromer products. I like that the company employs a lot of American workers, and its products are very well made. On chilly days you’ll find me wearing one of the warm plaid coats. Now I just need one of the classic hats! Learn more about this true Wisconsin classic on the Stormy Kromer website, or pick up your own Stormy Kromer products at REI. It’s a great way to show your roots while sporting a little Badger State history.
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