Frank Catalfumo, now 90-and-a-half years old, opened F&C Shoes in 1945, a shoe repair store in the Bensonhurst section of Brooklyn. During the past 70+ years, everything around Frank has changed. Prices have gone up; neighboring stores have come and gone, probably many times over. But one thing has remained the same. Frank “keeps moving forward,” coming to work five days a week and bringing worn souls back to life. His hands tell the story.
You can get to know Frank with the short film above and this accompanying photo essay, both created by filmmaker Dustin Cohen. The Shoemaker is the latest installment in Cohen’s film series called “Made in Brooklyn.” Previous installments include The Violin Maker, The Watchmaker, and The Jewelry Maker.
thank you. the shoemaker was very touching.
are men’s like you than make de world walking.
I’m shoemaker also and writer about shoes
Give me stories for write.
Give me your experience for Kown.
I like your Singer Machine.
I have one like that.
Thank you.
Been going to this shoemaker for over 20 years. My mother use to have her shoes done here and always said I wouldn’t even get taps on my shoes any where but from here. Though I moved out of the neighborhood I still bring all of my shoes to Frank well now Mike. Hands down the best show maker in Brooklyn.