The W.C. Russell Moccasin Company, the maker of boots for hiking, hunting, and outdoor sports based in Berlin, WI, was purchased by Luke Kolbie, founder of Kingfisher Leatherworks, and Joe Julian, president and owner of Julian & Sons. Terms were not disclosed.

Chief Operating Officer Joe Gonyo will continue leading the day-to-day operations of Russell’s moccasin-style boots and shoes.

Kingfisher Leatherworks is a U.S. producer of leather cases, luggage and shooting equipment. Julian & Sons specializes in bespoke gun rooms and cabinetry.

  • Luke Kolbie will function as CEO of Russell Moccasin. “As a fourth-generation Russell Moccasin wearer, the opportunity to be a steward of this company that has been so closely connected to both my heritage and the entire sporting community is a humbling and exciting experience.”
  • Joe Julian said, “This is a personal, not just business partnership for me. Luke and I are good friends and share the same “conservation through craftsmanship” approach to business. We are united in the hope that the Russell Moccasin community will support and hold us accountable to this philosophy. It is a foundational concept for us as we begin our tenure as the stewards of the Russell Moccasin legacy.”
  • Ralph “Lefty” Fabricius, second-generation owner and president of Russell Moccasin, said, “Time marches on! It has been a privilege to be a part of the Russell Moccasin legacy. I wish our new owners, Luke and Joe, continued success in the Russell Moccasin tradition.”
  • Suzie Fabricius, the third-generation owner of Russell Moccasin, said, “It is never easy selling a family heirloom, but we are most gratified that Luke Kolbie and Joe Julian are committed to continuing our traditional method of custom manufacturing in Berlin, WI. What is most important to all of us is keeping the integrity of the product and its traditional manufacturing processes in place. That way, our customers can be assured they are still receiving the same quality footwear they have purchased throughout the years at Russell Moccasin. The only change you should notice will be in the faces at the helm of the RMC. We have operated virtually unchanged for more than 124 years. We are thrilled that Luke and Joe share our same values, sustaining and building upon the Russell Moccasin heritage.”