A Walk through Malden History: From Rubber Boots to Converse Sneakers.

In 1853, Elisha Slade and James Converse founded the Boston Rubber Shoe Company. This company was a one-time Malden’s largest employer and the world's largest producer of fine rubber boots, shoes, and overshoes. Malden shoe workers went on to be employed at the Converse Rubber Shoe Company, founded in 1908 by Marquis Mills Converse (Elisha’s cousin). The Converse Rubber Shoe Company was home to the famed Chuck Taylor All Star brand. Malden’s sneaker history continued into the 1970s with the Converse Outlet on Highland Avenue. The Converse company was later sold to Nike, Inc.
Come learn about the Malden’s early shoe history and how one young shoe factory worker became Governor of Massachusetts. Gallery Hours are Wednesday 2-4 p.m. or by appointment.