Mano Swartz

Established in 1889, Mano Swartz stands as America's preeminent name in luxury fur. With over 130 years of history, the brand has become synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. This legacy of excellence finds its roots in the remarkable journey of its founder, a young Hungarian forester with a pioneering spirit who sought a brighter future in the land of opportunity.

More than a century ago, a spirited Hungarian forester embarked on a quest for a better life in the promising shores of America. His early years were marked by a series of audacious entrepreneurial ventures. Mano Swartz’s adventurous spirit and tireless pursuit of success laid the foundation for what would become a storied legacy in the world of luxury fur and a name synonymous with enduring excellence.

In the midst of Mano’s many enterprising endeavors, fate intervened. He left the rugged landscapes of the West and found his way to the bustling streets of New York, where he rediscovered his affinity for working with animals, particularly in the realm of fur.

In Baltimore, the original Mano Swartz found not only a new home but also love, as he married Diana Saks, a member of the esteemed Saks Fifth Avenue family. Together, they forged a legacy that would transcend generations. With their combined vision, they established the world-renowned Mano Swartz Furrier, an institution that would become a cornerstone of the fur industry for four successive generations.

In the 60’s Mano Swartz’s son Jimmie, assumed control of the business and revolutionized both the industry at large and retail culture locally in Baltimore by being the very first merchant to integrate, by selling to African American customers. In the same spirit of his father, Jimmie had a passion for entrepreneurship. With his magnetic personality and keen sense of discerning character, Jimmie was able to usher in extraordinary growth for the company by developing an impressive diversified portfolio of businesses. He also developed a set of principles and organized  a network of industry partners which remain a cornerstone of the business practices to this day.