History of Boker

The Boker story begins in the 17th century with a small hand tool factory under the shadow of a towering chestnut tree. This iconic tree would later become the company's enduring symbol, first appearing as a trademark in 1674. By the 18th century, Boker tools had gained renown for their quality, reaching leading status in Germany and neighboring countries.

Driven by the changing political climate and rising demand for weapons, the Boker brothers, Hermann and Robert, ventured into sword production in 1829, producing over 2000 blades a week. Their success paved the way for further diversification, leading to the establishment of branches across the globe. Hermann established H. Boker & Co. in New York, while Robert set up shop in Canada and Mexico.

Across the Wupper River in Solingen, a hub for the German cutlery industry, Heinrich Boker, their cousin, joined forces with renowned cutlery expert Hermann Heuser to establish Heinr. Boker & Co. in 1869. Recognizing the need for a simple and memorable trademark, particularly relevant for overseas markets with widespread illiteracy, Heinrich adopted the symbol of the old chestnut tree, then 200 years old. This iconic "Tree Brand" has remained synonymous with Boker quality ever since.

- Founded in the early 17th century

- The iconic chestnut tree first appeared as a trademark in 1674

- By the 18th century, Boker had reached leading status as a knife maker in Germany

- Due to rising demand for weapons, Boker began producing swords

- In 1829, Boker was producing over 2000 blades a week

-In 1869, Heinrich Boker and Herman Heuser joined forces to esablish Heinr. Boker & Co.

The original chestnut tree met its end in 1925, struck by lightning and consumed by the subsequent fire. As a reminder of this enduring symbol, an artist carved the Boker logo from the remaining wood, a piece that still adorns the entrance of the Boker Knife Manufactory today.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, a close relationship existed between the Boker branches. The US market, became a major focus, with H. Boker & Co. specializing in selling high-quality Solingen cutlery. As pocket knives rose in popularity, exceeding even scissors and razors, American production began to supplement Solingen's output. Both lines used the "Tree Brand" and sometimes even shared article numbers, distinguished only by their origin markings.

The Second World War brought a halt to this transatlantic collaboration and inflicted devastating losses. The Solingen factory was completely destroyed, and precious historical materials were lost. Additionally, the "Tree Brand" trademark for the US market was confiscated. Undeterred, the Boker family in Solingen rebuilt their factory with the help of loyal workers, determined to maintain pre-war quality standards. Meanwhile, John Boker Jr. secured the "Tree Brand" in New York, ensuring its continued use for both American and German products.

- In the 19th and early 20th century, Boker became focused on the American market

- American production grew so rapidly, it began to supply Germany with knives

- WW2 brought devastation for Boker, it servered ties with America, and the Boker Solingen factory was destroyed

The post-war era saw further changes. Boker USA was sold in the 1960s, passing through several owners before landing with Cooper Industries in the 1970s. This partnership proved fruitful, allowing Boker Solingen to modernize and innovate while Cooper's market power helped revitalize the Boker brand. In 1983, Cooper relinquished its own knife production, focusing solely on the distribution of Solingen-made knives. Three years later, the "Tree Brand" trademark rights for the US market were returned to Boker Solingen, marking their return to independent operation in the American market. Boker USA, Inc. was subsequently established in Denver, Colorado in 1986.

Beyond North America, Boker Arbolito S.A. was founded in Argentina in 1983, specializing in household, professional, and hunting knives. This expansion reflected the Boker family's pioneering spirit and solidified their presence in South American markets.

Today, Boker remains a globally recognized brand, its heritage intertwined with historical milestones, innovative spirit, and a touch of tragedy. The iconic "Tree Brand" serves as a constant reminder of their humble beginnings, unwavering commitment to quality, and a legacy that continues to shape the future of this remarkable company.

- Boker was acquired by Cooper Industries in the early 1970s

- Cooper Industries played a key role in revitalizing Boker before returning the US "Tree Brand" trademark to Boker in 1986

- Boker USA, Inc. was established in Denver, Colorado in 1986

- Boker Arbolito S.A. was founded in 1983 in Argentina, specializing in household, professional, and hunting knives