Takken's shoes opened in 1937 as a shoe repair shop in San Luis Obispo, CA. The business was successful as such (largely attributed to Harry's customer service and charisma, and was purchased by Harry's son Robert in 1971. In 1975 Robert expanded the business to include a retail component, adding western and work boots. In the mid 1980s Robert jumped on the new 'Comfort Shoe' trend, and again expanded the business adding several popular comfort brands of the time.In 1987 a second store was opened in Paso Robles,Ca.  The Paso Robles store is the oldest free-standing location currently in the corporation Both the San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles stores are still widely remembered for their western boot selection that began the retail side of the company.