Levi Strauss & Co. founded in San Francisco

Background. Levi Strauss, born Löb Strauß in Buttenheim, Bavaria, emigrated to the United States and became an American citizen in January 1853. He moved from New York City to San Francisco to establish a commercial presence on the West Coast. His firm began operations in 1853, serving as a wholesale distributor of dry goods and fabrics, laying the groundwork for its future reputation in denim apparel.

Founding. The company was established in May 1853 as a branch of the Strauss brothers' New York dry goods business. Levi Strauss relocated to San Francisco to manage this new venture. The firm operated as a wholesale house, supplying dry goods and fabrics to customers on the West Coast during its early years of operation.

Legacy. Levi Strauss & Co. is registered in Delaware with headquarters in San Francisco. The firm remained owned by descendants of Levi Strauss, who died in 1902. While the company is globally recognized for its Levi's brand, the founding period specifically concerns the establishment of the dry goods business in 1853, prior to the later patent developments with Jacob Davis.