H. & Q. Reed Shoe Manufacturer
Harvey and Quincy Reed, sons of Capt. Ezra Reed, established the first wholesale boot and shoe store in Boston in 1809, forming the firm H. & Q. Reed. Despite limited capital, they successfully expanded their business with branches in Richmond and New Orleans, supplying goods across the U.S. and importing sugar from the West Indies. Their company thrived until its dissolution in 1833. Harvey Reed later pursued a lumbering business in Bangor, Maine, while Quincy lived on, retaining the firm’s historical records. The Reed family has deep roots in the shoe industry, dating back to the 17th century.