The Journal
Field notes from American makers.
Guides, gift ideas, and stories from the people still building things in the United States.
Filson, Duluth Pack, or Frost River? The American Heritage Bag Guide
Three heritage names still sewing in the United States, from Filson's 1897 Seattle roots to the Duluth workshops turning out canoe packs since 1882. How they differ, what they cost, and which one to carry.
Read the piece →
American-Made Cast Iron, Compared: Lodge vs. Smithey vs. Field vs. Stargazer
Four American foundry brands, four philosophies, prices from $25 to $300. How Lodge, Smithey, Field Company, and Stargazer actually differ, and which skillet belongs in your kitchen.
America at 250: The Heritage Brands Still Making It Here
The United States turns 250 on July 4, 2026. Meet the American factories that have been running since before the lightbulb, and learn how to celebrate the Semiquincentennial by buying from makers who never left.
The American-Made Gift Guide: Verified U.S.-Made Gifts for Everyone on Your List
Real gifts from verified American makers: cast iron from Tennessee, socks knit in Vermont, bags sewn in Maine, and a full under-$50 list. Every brand here manufactures in the United States.
Made in USA Labels Explained: How to Tell What Is Really American-Made
"Made in USA", "Assembled in USA", "Designed in California": these labels mean very different things. Here is the FTC standard in plain English, the qualified claims to watch for, and the questions that separate real domestic manufacturing from marketing.