World’s Largest Shoe House Gets Its Shine Back

As seen on BusinessWire.com:

HELLAM, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Volunteers from Hampton Hotels’ “Save-A-Landmark” program dig in their heels today as they overhaul the World’s Largest Shoe House in Hellam, Pennsylvania. In an estimated 84-hour restoration effort, nearly 20 employee volunteers will clean, prime and paint the five-story work boot; restore its historic stain glass windows; and paint the Shoe House’s fence.


As part of the restoration, Hampton has partnered with Soles4Souls™ – a non-profit organization that collects and distributes shoes for those in need – in asking community members to put their best foot forward by donating their gently used shoes. Shoes can be dropped off at the Shoe House on September 26, any time between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.

“Hellam’s quirky Shoe House has brought smiles to passing motorists for decades, and we’re taking an extra step in this restoration to help those who need new shoes as well,” said Judy Christa-Cathey, vice president of brand marketing for Hampton Hotels. “Hampton is helping to ensure that future generations of visitors will have a chance to stand in the shadow of this gigantic piece of Americana, by contributing nearly $20,000 toward the landmark’s ongoing care.”


The 25-foot tall, 48-foot long Shoe House was originally built in 1948 by Mahlon N. Haines, a famously eccentric local shoe salesman, as an extravagant advertising gimmick. Haines, the “Shoe Wizard of York,” once invited young honeymooners to stay the night in his Shoe House, free of charge. The popular tourist attraction now operates as an ice cream parlor and gift shop, and as a museum dedicated to Haines’ colorful life.

Hampton’s Save-A-Landmark program is continuing its eighth year preserving historical, fun and cultural landmarks, from the Carousel Gardens in New Orleans, La. to the historical National Monument to the Forefathers in Plymouth, Mass. During this time, the program has helped research landmarks in need, promoted landmark sites and their importance, facilitated thousands of volunteer hours, donated several tons of supplies and worked with matching grants — all at an investment of more than $2.5 million. Banding its hotels together in the communities they serve, Hampton employee-volunteers work hand-in-hand on the landmarks while Hampton provides the dollars to refurbish selected sites.

The Save-A-Landmark program is always searching for landmarks in need. Anyone with suggestions can visit the Save-A-Landmark Web site at www.hamptonlandmarks.com and click on “submit a landmark” to enter their nominations – or even just to bring some much-deserved attention to a favorite attraction.


About Soles4Souls
Nashville-based Soles4Souls facilitates the donations of shoes, which will be used to aid the hurting worldwide. Shoe companies, retailers and individuals can donate footwear (both new and used). Soles4Souls is a 501(c)(3) recognized by the IRS; donating parties are eligible for tax advantages. Visit www.GiveShoes.org or call (866) 521-SHOE.