Sock Monkey crazy

I love Sock Monkeys!! They have a look about them that is hard to describe. They really aren't that cute and cuddly. They are sort of plain and homely. Maybe what draws me to them is that look like they need someone to love them...because they are kind of weird. It started with my grandma. She made sock monkeys for me when I was little.   They were the originals, made out of real socks and stuffed with her old 'stockings' that had runs in them. I still have them.

original old sock monkey

Sock Monkeys have a uniqueness and a history. The Red Heel® socks where first manufactured in 1890 by The Nelson Knitting Mills in Rockford Illinois. John Nelson came to this country from Sweden in 1852 with the Swedish immigrants stepping off the train in Rockford. The first sock knitting machines were patented by him in 1869. Incorporated in 1880, The Nelson Knitting Co. was the first company world wide to manufacture socks. These sturdy and comfortable work-socks were worn mainly by farmers and factory workers.

In the 1900's mothers started crafting these socks into sock monkeys and other animals for their children.

So there is your history lesson for the day. My family can call me crazy all they want to, but I will always love Sock Monkeys.

~bekuyps