Spartanburg's Oldest Shoe Store

Who We Are

Thompson’s Famous Name Brand Shoes is a family owned and operated business. The shoe store was founded by Katie Thompson in 1956. She starting selling shoes in her garage and quickly built the store where it still stands today. Katie, her son William, and daughter-in-law Rachel expanded the business over the years, and the store is now in its 3rd generation, headed by Will.

We continue to follow the same motto that has allowed our company to flourish throughout the years –customer service. Our staff is here to give all of our valued customers the personal service and attention that sets us apart from big box stores and department stores.

Katie Thompson

Katie Thompson (1910-2000) – Katie taught Sunday School at First Baptist Lyman for 70 years. Her life revolved around the shoe store.Bill Thompson (1940-1999) – Bill came to work at the shoe store after his time in the Navy. His life revolved around Rachel.

Rachel Thompson

Rachel Thompson began working at the store in 1973, due to husband Bill asking her to fill in one day.  She brought her six week old infant (Will) to work with her, and never stopped working.

She has been an active choir member at First Baptist of Spartanburg for 36 years. She loves spending time with her grand-kids Taylor, Maggie, and Luke.  She enjoys shopping and trips to the beach! She is crazy about Georgia Tech and Byrnes football.

Will Thompson

Rachel Thompson began working at the store in 1973, due to husband Bill asking her to fill in one day.  She brought her six week old infant (Will) to work with her, and never stopped working.

She has been an active choir member at First Baptist of Spartanburg for 36 years. She loves spending time with her grand-kids Taylor, Maggie, and Luke.  She enjoys shopping and trips to the beach! She is crazy about Georgia Tech and Byrnes football.​

Michael Brown

Michael Brown joined the store in 1991 at our Greer location. He came to Wellford in 1999. He has been just as big a part of the family and now assumes the Manager role.

He is the Worship Leader at Fairforest Baptist in Union, SC. He enjoys doing the displays and merchandising at the store, a talent which he believes the Lord blessed him with. He enjoys traveling and working out.