By Laura Ann Tipps/Staff Writer
Anderson’s Shoes and Boots, LLC, specializing in safety and work footwear, has been part of the Etowah County business community for over 42 years.
Started in 1971 by Donald and Frances Anderson, the store has been owned by their daughter, Tammy Anderson Allen, since they retired 15 years ago.
When Anderson’s first opened, it was located on 3rd Street in Attalla. In 1995, Allen moved the store to its current location right next to the train tracks at the intersection of Highway 77 and Highway 11, across from Hi Tech Fuel in Attalla.
“There is so much traffic on that highway, and it was a great move for us,” said Allen.
Five years after the move, Anderson’s got two shoe-mobile trucks on the road. The trucks are driven to manufactures all over the state of Alabama who purchase shoes for their employees.
Among these manufacturers are Honda, Goodyear Tire and Rubber of Gadsden, and many others throughout the state.
In addition to safety and work footwear, Anderson’s also offers western wear, hunting and hiking gear, casual shoes, shoe care aids, and clothing and accessories, including Carhartt products.
Shoes have been in the Anderson family for generations.
Allen’s great-uncle, a shoe cobbler, began the tradition.
“It was an interest for him, and for some other ancestors, that kind of trickled down into our family over the years,” said Allen.
Anderson’s has remained a family business since Allen took the reins in 1989.
Her daughter, Hayley Norman, has been the store’s manager for seven years.
Last year, Anderson’s overcame tragedy when their store was hit by the tornado that ripped through the area in March.
Almost half of the store was destroyed, but business went on as usual—except without power, heat, phones, or computers.
“Our employees stuck together and waited on customers with flashlights,” said Allen.
Anderson’s turned a negative into a positive by seeing the tornado destruction as an opportunity for remodeling.
“Now, we have a new, more updated store on that side,” said Allen.
“Owning your own business really does have its ups and downs, but I feel so very blessed to be a part of this family-owned business.”
Anderson’s is open Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Their toll-free number is 877-468-2467.