Avon Boot Shop traces its history back to when it was originally founded in 1948 as Avon Hardware. Since 1948, the name and the products sold have evolved to suit their customer’s needs.
A family based store, Joseph Forthofer and his son Julian “Foot” Forthofer founded Avon Hardware. The store catered to the local farmers of the day as a “general store” and sold everything from trapping and hunting gear to Maytag ringer-washing machines.
Over time, Avon Hardware became known as Avon Gun and Tack Shop and grew to become one of the largest sporting goods, horse equipment, hunting, fishing and rifling stores in Ohio. Since 1990, “Foot” and his wife Norma have retired and their son Dan and his wife Ann run the business known now as Avon Boot Shop.
From 1984-1994 Avon Boot Shop was located at Southland Shopping Center in Middleburgh Heights. Specializing in western boots, jeans, clothing, jewelry, moccasins and such. The shop soon grew out of its “space” and in 1994 relocated to Great Northern Shopping Plaza in North Olmsted.
In November of 2001, keeping with family name and tradition, Dan and Ann Forthofer proudly moved Avon Boot Shop back to Avon, Ohio. Ever willing to diversify, Avon Boot Shop has emerged as one of the largest suppliers of work, western and biker boots. The shop provides customers with an outstanding selection of boots at everyday low prices, as well as clothing and unique accessories.
