Originally the Sheboygan Knitting Company thrived due to the colossal lumbering industry in Wisconsin. Unfortunately, in 1904 a devastating fire resulted in the liquidation of the company. However, In the months following the fire, the Hand Knit Hosiery Company was formed by: Herbert Chesebro, Lawrence A. Bentz and Robert H. Ehaney. These three men took responsibility for a company that, years later, would become the leader in outdoor, athletic and active sock production.