Ever wondered about the connection between Goodyear tyres and Goodyear-welted shoes?

Perhaps not, in fairness, but the answer is family.

Charles Goodyear (senior, 1800 – 1860) developed vulcanised rubber. The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company was founded some 40 years after his death and named after him.

Charles Goodyear Junior, his son, developed the process for the Goodyear welt in 1869.

Now, you know.

Shoemaker Crockett and Jones has more on the process, here.

Image: Crockett and Jones