Lashbrook & Simmons (1886-1889)

Lashbrook & Simmons manufactured and sold men’s and women’s shoes. Fred J. Lashbrook and Robert S. Simmons started the company in 1886 and specialized in custom work, including “boots, shoes, and rubbers,” which they sold out of their 157 ½ Dundas Street location. The image above captures the interior of their Dundas Street Storefront, featuring employees and a sample of their boots to the right. While the business was short-lived, closing in 1889, it offered a unique perspective into custom shoemaking in London at the end of the 19th century. 

We acknowledge that we are on the traditional lands of the Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, Lūnaapéewak and Attawandaron. We honour and respect the history, languages and culture of the diverse Indigenous people who call this territory home.

We acknowledge all the treaties that are specific to this area: the Two Row Wampum Belt Treaty of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy/Silver Covenant Chain; the Beaver Hunting Grounds of the Haudenosaunee NANFAN Treaty of 1701; the McKee Treaty of 1790, the London Township Treaty of 1796, the Huron Tract Treaty of 1827, with the Anishinaabeg, and the Dish with One Spoon Covenant Wampum of the Anishnaabek and Haudenosaunee.

The three Indigenous Nations that are neighbours to London are the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation; Oneida Nation of the Thames; and the Munsee-Delaware Nation who all continue to live as sovereign Nations with individual and unique languages, cultures, and customs.