Our Story
Mark Adrian Shoes was founded in 1975 by Mark Adrian Farber. His son, Adam Farber, is a fifth generation shoe retailer whose family legacy began over 125 years ago. Mark Adrian Shoes’ location in the beautiful seaport of Gloucester, MA has grown over 45 years to become one of the premier purveyors of quality footwear north of Boston. Adam officially took over when Mark retired in 2017. Now in our fifth decade, we are proud to have helped tens of thousands of customers find just the right comfort, style and value to make their every step a “fitting occasion.”
We appreciate you being a part of our continuing story!
Late 1800s
Adam’s great-great-grandfather, Lazarus, immigrated to the United States from Eastern Europe and settled in Portland, Maine where he was a shoemaker and opened a retail shoe store on Middle Street.
1920s
Lazarus’ son Sam moved south to Boston with his wife Annie, following his father into the retail shoe business by opening his own shoe stores.
1940s
After WWII, Annie and Sam’s son Bob, Adam’s grandfather, likewise opened several shoe stores throughout the Boston area (Bob’s Bootery). Along with his wife Sally, he introduced his children to the retail shoe culture, particularly engaging his son Mark in the family business.
1975
Just after graduating from UMass, Amherst, Bob’s son, Mark Adrian Farber, Adam’s father, founded today’s store on Main Street in Gloucester. With his soon-to-be-wife, Amy, they moved into their new community. Mark purchased the business from Philip and Libelle Wine, who had opened their shoe store in this location in 1950. Mark immediately began rebuilding the business into the very special store it is today.
2014
Adam joined the family business after having grown up in the entrepreneurial family culture. He spent his first decade after college in New York City working in marketing and product development for Legacy Recordings, a division of Sony Music. Adam brought new insight and energy into the business, introducing new shoe brands, expanding our technological prowess, and re-engaging our very loyal customers and staff.
2017
Mark officially retired and Adam assumed full ownership of Mark Adrian Shoes. Adam, his wife Sara, and their two young sons are thrilled to be continuing the family tradition.