About Woolrich The Woolrich Company is today one of the premier names in clothing and other outdoor products for the outdoor lifestyle. Founded over 175 years ago, it is one of the oldest continuously operating companies in the country. Woolrich got its start in 1830 when a young man named John Rich built his first woolen mill in Plum Run, Pennsylvania. By 1845 he expanded the mill and it was moved to and still sits in what is now Woolrich, Pennsylvania. The first wool products manufactured by Woolrich were simple yet integral to the building of a nation. Originally, John Rich traveled from logging camp to logging camp selling fabric, socks, coverlets, and yarn to lumbermen from the back of a mule cart. The loggers then made clothes and blankets from the fabric. From this rather modest beginning, Woolrich grew and developed more sophisticated products with new production methods. Woolrich was producing a full line of wool shirts, breeches, jackets, and caps by 1890. Form followed function with the clothing of this time. Men working on the railroad needed watch pockets while telegraph linemen had use for tool pockets and still hunters and trappers required game pockets. Woolrich began a tradition of manufacturing clothing that fit the task of the trade. Legend has it that Woolrich was the first company to use a zipper in men's trousers. The timeless "Railroad Vest", introduced when the railroad was being built through Pennsylvania, is still a popular item in the Woolrich line. Another garment with roots back to the mid 1800's is the "Buffalo Shirt", named after the buffalo raised by the designer of the plaid pattern. The passing years brought technological advancements; allowing leisure time activities to become a greater part of the American lifestyle. Woolrich soon began producing wool sport blouses, all-wool bathing suits, beach robes, and wool golf knickers. The early 1930s ushered in Woolrich automobile robes and steamer rugs for the more mobile society. The outdoors continued to be a source of recreation and Woolrich set the standard for rugged outdoor wear. Eventually, the introduction of new materials such as Gore-Tex®, Thinsulate®, and Cordura allowed Woolrich to enhance the performance of wool. Material was lighter weight, able to breathe, and dried quickly without loss of body heat. Woolrich clothing was even more durable and resistant to abrasion and tearing. The company expanded into four-season apparel, embracing cotton sportswear and outerwear in new product lines. New textures, dyeing techniques, and washes were developed. Woolrich today has evolved from a manufacturing-driven company to lifestyle brand that includes a wide variety of products for people who spend time in the outdoors, everything from clothing to accessories for the home. Woolrich is and always has been Committed to quality products, people and organizations.  "Woolrich quality and value continues to be defined and redefined by our customers, our technology, and our people."