History of the Fur Market NYC Chicago

The NYC Fur Market, also known as the Fur District, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here’s a brief overview:

Early Years (1900s-1920s)

History of the Fur Market NYC Chicago, Fur Market

The fur trade in New York City began in the early 1900s, with many furriers and traders setting up shop in the Garment District.
The industry grew rapidly, with New York becoming a major hub for fur processing, manufacturing, and trading.

The Rise of the Fur Market (1920s-1950s)

NYC Fur Market History

In the 1920s, the New York Fur Market began to take shape, with the establishment of the New York Fur Exchange (NYFE) and the construction of the Fur Exchange Building at 1 East 40th Street.
During this period, the market experienced significant growth, with many prominent fur companies setting up operations in the area.

Elegant Furs 1920″s

Golden Age (1950s-1980s)

The post-war period saw the New York Fur Market reach its peak, with the industry experiencing unprecedented growth and prosperity.
This era saw the rise of iconic fur fashion designers, such as Norman Norell and Pauline Trigère, who helped establish New York as a global center for fur fashion.

Chicago Fur Market

The Rise and Evolution of the NY and Chicago Fur Markets

The fur trade has a rich history in the United States, with two major hubs emerging in the early 20th century: New York City and Chicago. Both cities played significant roles in the growth and development of the industry, shaping the global fur market into what it is today.

Fur Coat 1920’s

New York City: The Birthplace of the American Fur Industry

In the early 1900s, New York City’s Garment District became the epicenter of the American fur trade. Immigrant furriers from Europe, particularly Russia and Poland, brought their skills and expertise to the city, establishing small workshops and factories. The industry grew rapidly, with New York becoming a major hub for fur processing, manufacturing, and trading.

The New York Fur Exchange (NYFE) was established in 1920, providing a central marketplace for buyers and sellers to trade raw and processed furs. The NYFE played a crucial role in standardizing prices, quality control, and trading practices, cementing New York’s position as the premier fur market.

Men’s Furs Slider

Chicago: The Rise of the Midwest Fur Hub

Chicago emerged as a significant fur market in the 1920s, driven by its strategic location and access to raw materials. The city’s proximity to the Great Lakes and rail networks facilitated the transportation of furs from trappers and breeders across North America.

The Chicago Fur Exchange was established in 1924, rivaling New York’s dominance in the industry. Chicago’s market focused on raw furs, with many trading companies and auction houses setting up operations in the city.

Golden Age of the Fur Industry (1950s-1980s)

The post-war period saw both New York and Chicago experience unprecedented growth, with the fur industry reaching its peak. Iconic fur fashion designers, such as Norman Norell and Pauline Trigère, emerged in New York, showcasing luxurious fur creations on runways and in high-end boutiques.

Chicago continued to thrive as a hub for raw fur trading, with the city’s auction houses and trading companies driving global demand. The industry’s success was fueled by innovative marketing campaigns, which positioned fur as a symbol of luxury and status.

Fur Coats Jackets

Legacy and Impact

The NY and Chicago fur markets have left an indelible mark on the fashion industry, influencing:

Luxury fashion and haute couture.
The development of synthetic materials and faux fur.
The growth of sustainable and cruelty-free fashion movements.

Their history serves as a testament to the dynamic nature of the fashion industry, where innovation, adaptation, and responsiveness to changing consumer values are essential for survival and success.

Fur Store Near

Marc Kaufman Furs is the Oldest Fur Family in Thue USA. The Kaufman Family started in 1870