Here's Why George Washington Inspired Ball and Buck's Name

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Welcome to Name Calling, where boutique owners around Boston share the story behind their shop's name.

Ball and Buck has evolved into the New England man's ideal habitat: its taxidermy-adorned space contains rugged leather goods, built-to-last footwear, and hunting-quality apparel that somehow also fit in on a city sidewalk. A barbershop in the back emphasizes that guys should be looking sharp, and the whole operation champions American-made gear that creates domestic jobs. Owner Mark Bollman confirms that the name is also linked to the good ol' US of A, originating with our first president.

How did the store name come about?
During the American Revolution, George Washington encouraged his troops to use "buck and ball" loads for their muskets. This loading method, that used smaller pellets to make a greater impact on target, inspired those of us here in the birthplace of that revolution. Here in Boston a new kind of American company has been born. With a revolutionary twist on an American tradition (pun intended), Ball and Buck is a company with an ambitious vision and strong principals. We may be starting small, but we're fighting for the greater good. With your help, Ball and Buck will bring America back to the very roots on which she was founded—one garment at a time.

And what is the weirdest thing someone has told you about it?
Customer: "Ball and WHAT?" Me: "Ball and Buck." Customer: "Oh phew, I thought you said something else."
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· Ball and Buck [Official Site]