Martinez fixes ’em

Don Martinez displays some of his work in his shop on State Ave.

ALAMOSA —Don Martinez of Martinez Boot and Shoe Repair of Alamosa has kept alive what is becoming an almost lost art for over 30 years. His small shop has become a mainstay in the downtown area.

Along with fixing all manners of footwear, Martinez makes repairs to gloves, leather jackets, luggage and all varieties of other goods.

The Valley native learned the trade from his father, Emition.

“It was a matter of expediency,” said Martinez.

He went on to describe how he would work for his father following school hours. Martinez later spent three years serving in the U.S. Armed forces.

Following time in the service, Martinez went on to acquire his equipment and opened a new shop out of his home. In time, he was able to relocate to the shops’ current location on State Ave.

Martinez said that he enjoys his work and the fact that he gets to meet many different individuals.

"Every day is different; there's no routine," he said.

Martinez said he appreciates the Alamosa community. “It may be small, but when times get tough, people come together," he said.

He has found the variety and challenges of his job to be rewarding.

 Martinez plans to continue to work as long as possible. He hopes to pass the business on to his son, Joseph.


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