When a representative from the iconic game show “Jeopardy!” contacted Audrey Zimmerman a few months ago, she was surprised to learn that her family-owned business, the Kepner Scott Shoe Company, was to be featured in an upcoming episode. The shoe company, based in Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania, officially made its television debut on March 18, 2024, marking a significant moment for the family and the local community.
During the Double Jeopardy round, host Ken Jennings presented a clue under the category “In Good Company.” The clue read: “A company with a lot of sole, Kepner Scott in Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania is the oldest surviving maker of these for kids in America.” A contestant buzzed in promptly, answering, “What are shoes?” to which Jennings confirmed their response as correct.
Audrey described the experience as “really exciting,” reflecting the joy shared by her family. The Kepner Scott Shoe Company, located on N. Liberty Street just two blocks from the town’s downtown square, has been crafting children’s footwear since its establishment in 1888. The company has deep roots in the community, with Audrey’s great-grandfather, Milo Zimmerman, acquiring it in 1962. He implemented innovative changes to improve comfort in children’s shoes, which were previously stiff and hard.
“My great-grandfather was a pioneer in the shoe industry,” Audrey noted. “He worked with an engineer to create more comfortable products, and the public appreciated it.”
Now in its fourth generation, the Zimmerman family continues the tradition of shoemaking. Audrey and her sister, Addie Zimmerman, follow in the footsteps of their predecessors, including their late grandfather, H. Clair Zimmerman, their father, Steve Zimmerman, and their aunt, Sue Murphy. The company employs a team of around 15 staff members who produce approximately 30,000 pairs of shoes annually. Their offerings include dress shoes, boots, loafers, and sandals for infants through youth size 3, sold both wholesale and directly to consumers via their website.
While many shoe manufacturers have shifted their operations overseas, the Zimmermans pride themselves on maintaining local production. Recently, Audrey launched a new brand named Zimmerman Shoes, which focuses on orthopedic footwear under the Kepner Scott umbrella.
The announcement of their Jeopardy! feature came as a surprise to many in their community. “Most people didn’t know until they saw it on the show or social media,” Audrey explained. The episode generated a wave of excitement, with viewers sharing their pride online. “People were posting, ‘I know that answer,’ and ‘I know where that is,’” she said.
Other businesses highlighted in the same Jeopardy! category included notable names like Avon, Kroger, Longaberger, and Lionel. The recognition for Orwigsburg, a small borough, has been particularly meaningful for the Zimmermans.
In the wake of the broadcast, the company has already noticed a surge in interest. “We could see it spike,” Audrey shared, referring to website traffic and sales growth following the episode’s airing.
For more information about Kepner Scott Shoe Company and its offerings, visit zimmermanshoes.com. The family’s commitment to quality and local production continues to resonate with customers, as they proudly carry forward a legacy that spans over a century.
