SCANDALOUS Memorial Day: How Kornwestheim honored the shoe pioneer Sigle!
On July 8, 2025, Kornwestheim will commemorate honorary citizen Jakob Sigle on the 90th anniversary of his death with a wreath-laying ceremony by the mayor.

SCANDALOUS Memorial Day: How Kornwestheim honored the shoe pioneer Sigle!
A shocking event has thrown the town of Kornwestheim into turmoil! On the occasion of the 90th anniversary of the death of the legendary honorary citizen Jakob Sigle, the citizens remember a true pioneer who not only had a significant impact on the shoe industry, but also on the city's history. On July 5, 1935, Sigle left this world at the age of 74, but his legacy lives on. Mayor Nico Lauxmann and the tireless mayor Martina Koch-Haßdenteufel laid a wreath on his grave today with great respect, thereby paying tribute to one of the great innovators of the 19th century. Stuttgart News report how important Jakob Sigle's contribution was to the development of the city and the entire shoe industry!
Born the son of a simple shoemaker on November 17, 1861, Sigle demonstrated his extraordinary abilities at a young age. He began an apprenticeship as a shoemaker and in 1885 took the plunge into self-employment with his own master business. This courageous decision was the foundation for one of the most successful shoe factories in Germany - Salamander AG, which he founded together with Max Levi in 1891. A beginning that employed over 100 people and laid the foundation for a brand that is still considered the epitome of quality and style today!
From shoemaker to industry leader
INCREDIBLE! In 1896, Jakob Sigle learned about the revolutionary methods of shoe production in America, which he immediately adapted for his own factory. After just a decade, annual production was estimated at an incredible 250,000 pairs of shoes! This was the moment the company catapulted to the heights of the footwear industry. In 1930, Salamander GmbH was converted into a stock corporation - a company that continues to inspire people to this day. salamander reveals the exciting details about the growth and development of this legendary brand!
Jakob Sigle's outstanding achievements don't end with simple footwear! He was an active member of the citizens' committee and local council for 25 years and tirelessly advocated for the interests of his city. In 1916, as a symbol of his achievements, he was made an honorary citizen - an award that shows how deeply rooted he was in people's hearts.
A look into the future
The shoe industry has evolved since then. A visit to Hauenstein Museum reveals the fascinating origins of the art of shoemaking and shows how the historical influence of personalities like Jakob Sigle can still be felt today. The ground floor there celebrates the impressive history of shoe production, from the beginning to the modern era. Looking at the craftsmanship on display from the Middle Ages to modern times, one can only imagine the colossal developments the industry has undergone!
Today's shoemakers combine traditional craftsmanship with modern design while ensuring maximum comfort. Salamander has established itself as a lifestyle brand and is proud to continue the high standards that defined Jakob's vision. Salamander isn't just a name - it's a legend!
Finally, the memory of Jakob Sigle testifies to an everlasting connection between the city and the shoe industry. Today we celebrate not only his life, but also the legacy of a man who revolutionized the world of shoes and would leave his mark on the hometown of Kornwestheim forever! A true role model for entrepreneurial thinking and social responsibility.