Susan Fisher Designs

Sock Monkey History

The Nelson Knitting Mills in Rockford, Illinois made the original Rockford Red Heel® Sock in 1890. After a customer made a monkey from the socks, the company, in 1920, began including directions for the sock monkeys with each pair. They became a  popular doll during the depression because they were so inexpensive to make.  

After purchasing Nelson Knitting Mills in 1992,   Fox River Mills  continued the tradition of including directions for making these dolls in every package of Rockford Red Heel® Socks. These handmade dolls continue to be a favorite piece of Americana.