Built by Hand for Detroit Railroad Workers
In 1889, Hamilton Carhartt founded Carhartt, Inc. in Detroit, Michigan with just two sewing machines, half a horsepower electric motor, and five employees in a small attic loft. Consulting directly with railroad engineers, Carhartt created the iconic Hamilton Carhartt Overall made from heavy-duty 12-ounce cotton duck canvas and denim.
Emblazoned with the slogan "Honest value for an honest dollar," Carhartt became the uniform of Motor City auto workers, steel fabricators, and construction crews building 20th-century America.
The Detroit Jacket & The Streetwear Crossover
During the 1990s, rap artists, skateboarders, and urban youth in New York, London, and Tokyo adopted the rugged Carhartt Detroit Jacket (Style J97) and watch beanies for their indestructible build and clean aesthetic.
This organic adoption led to the founding of Carhartt WIP (Work In Progress), translating Detroit industrial heritage into high-end fashion collaborations with Junya Watanabe, Sacai, and A.P.C. In 2015, Carhartt returned to its roots, opening its 5,100-square-foot flagship store at 5808 Cass Avenue in Midtown Detroit.
Brand Legacy
"We've been serving hardworking people for 137 years. Detroit is in our DNA—it's the grit, integrity, and authenticity behind everything we stitch."
— Carhartt Executive Team
Company Timeline
Hamilton Carhartt establishes Carhartt, Inc. in a Detroit loft, handcrafting heavy-duty duck denim overalls for railroad workers.
Carhartt WIP (Work In Progress) launches in Europe, introducing Detroit workwear to skate culture, hip-hop, and high fashion.
Carhartt opens its 5100-square-foot flagship retail store at 5808 Cass Avenue in Midtown Detroit.
Carhartt remains family-owned with headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, employing over 5,500 people globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Carhartt founded?
Carhartt was founded in Detroit, Michigan in 1889 by Hamilton Carhartt, starting with just two sewing machines in a small city loft.
What is the Carhartt Detroit Jacket?
The Detroit Jacket (Style J97) is a iconic workwear garment featuring a rugged 12-ounce ring-spun cotton duck canvas shell, corduroy collar, and warm blanket lining.
Where is the Carhartt Detroit flagship store?
The flagship Carhartt store is located at 5808 Cass Avenue in Midtown Detroit, housed inside a restored historic automotive building.