Webster's Shoe Repair to sell on Aug. 13

The late Homer Webster of Hillsboro was known for “saving soles” in uptown Hillsboro for more than half a century.

Born April 12, 1923, the son of Tommy and Maud Webster of Fairfax, Mr. Webster purchased Shaw’s Shoe Shop at 130 South High Street in 1942; and in 1960, renamed the business Webster’s Shoe Repair.

Mr. Webster passed away in January 2010. His son, Mark Webster, continued the business until 2014.

On Aug. 13, Nationwide Auctions and Realty will conduct a sale on the building and property.

For many years, Homer Webster’s familiar cobbler business featured a sign that read: “We mend the rips, patch the holes, build up the heels, and save the soles.”

According to information provided by Mark Webster, his dad owned and operated the business from 1942-2010.

The business was opened in 1904 by John Shaw.

Homer Webster worked for Shaw as an apprentice. After graduating from Hillsboro High School in 1941, Mr. Webster helped run the business prior to purchasing it. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

Following his military service, he returned to the South High location that had served local residents for more than 100 years.

After the passing of Homer Webster in 2010 and his wife, Betty, in February 2015, their sons, Mark and Don, assumed ownership of the property.

According to Mark Webster, the city of Hillsboro funded improvements to the building in 2014 after he announced its closing.

The building has a large open room with a front waiting room and a back work area and is located in the city’s historic district.

In addition to the building, personal property for sale will include shoe repair machinery and equipment, wood-working tools and other items.