Quaker Marine began life along the docks and piers of old Philadelphia in 1949. In those early years, traditional marine supplies were offered to local seaman, boaters and sailors. Along the way, sometime in the 70s, the company followed a path that almost took shape on its own — it became a nautical hat company. Joe Kadison, founder of Quaker Marine Supply, loved hats. He designed and made hats that were grounded in the heritage of the rugged seafaring traditions of the Philadelphia waterfront.

In time, the collection expanded into a broader range of hats appealing to a larger group of outdoor enthusiasts such as seamen, fishermen, trekkers, and travelers.

Quaker Marine Supply Company, Inc. changed ownership in May of 2003. The new owner, Ned Kitchel, a long time sailor and fan of Quaker Marine hats, brings 25 years of product development experience from catalogers like L.L. Bean® and Lands' End®. Ned relocated Quaker Marine Supply Co. closer to his home near Portland, Maine in November of 2003.

Quaker Marine will continue to offer hats that are designed and engineered to endure the activities that active people enjoy.