Save your Soles

The local Woonsocket shoemaker on Elm street, fixed and polished up my 37 year old authentic Mexican hurrachis - the dark brown leather ones with tire tread soles. Lily had jumped up on the buckle and it tore off. I carried the tiny metal buckle in my change purse all summer wearing the sandals unstrapped. When I realized how long I've had these sandals and how great they are, I had to fix them.
I gave the shoemaker Bill's brown leather clogs, in perfect shape but the rubber soles from shoddy shoe repair, in a nearby town, had popped off. Our Woonsocket shoemaker has offered to take the taps off my tap shoes too. I may do that. This trade is rare and it is this repair work that saves us during our most challenging economic decade.

Pierannunzi Shoe Rebuilding is a small mom and pop shop that was originally established in 1902 by Carmillo Pierannunzi. It was subsequently handed down to his son, Carmello Jr., who in 1947 hired Norman Decelles. In 1993, Norman took over as the shop's new owner and although he is now retired, he still opens his shop five days a week. After more than 100 years at his initial location on Court Street, Norman moved to Elm Street due to the schedule demolition of the old building. Pierannunzi's repairs shoes and handbags - mainly leather - and offers shoe shines while you wait. The equipment is kept in fine working condition, and Norman can still give the best shine in town. He states that as long as he still feels good (he is now 71 years old), he will continue to open the shop. He began shining shoes when he was just 13 years old; "It's something I've done all my life... I love my work." When he goes, he states, the name will go with him.

Pierannunzi Shoe Rebuilding
534 Elm St, Woonsocket, RI 02895
(401) 767-2948
Hours: Mon, Tue, Fri, 8:30am - 2pm; Thu, 8:30am - 5pm; Sat, 8:30am - noon; Wed, Sun, closed.