Loggers wanted boots that would survive the rigors of the forest and Charlie Wohlford , owner of the Lumberman's Social Club listened and had an idea. At the urging of loggers, he brought together the elements to found the Dayton Shoe Company in 1946. By 1947 Charlie had brought in his youngest son, Wayne Wohlford, who oversaw the production and created the styles that are now the signature of Dayton. The company built and moved into the Hastings Street location in 1950.