Meet Michael Montalto, Owner of M T Cobbler

The town cobbler, or shoemaker, is oft put in the ranks of menders, merchants, midwives and apothecaries as a dated or dying profession. The breed of cobblers, though waning, isn’t extinct yet, and Michael Montalto is living proof. 

Montalto has situated himself just across from at repairing shoes for the last six years. Having been in the business around 26 years, Montalto has seen the classic profession evolve with the advancement of science and footwear technologies.

The footwear aficionado spoke with Patch about how the modern cobbler works and how he got his start.

North Branford Patch: How did you get involved in the cobbler profession?

Michael Montalto: My grandfather was in the business and he had a store in New Haven. I think I started learning the trade at about 12 years old. My mother would send me down to his shop for punishment. Here I am all these years later still paying for my sins. *laughs*

North Branford Patch: How did you end up in North Branford?

Montalto: I worked for a couple other shoe repair places until I opened up my own shop in Madison. I was there about 20 years until that got stale. Then I moved here about six years ago.

North Branford Patch: What does the bulk of your work entail?

Montalto: I repair, resole, do leather work, custom orthopedics, sometimes custom-made shoes. I went to orthopedic school so I could learn to make custom orthopedics and expand into the comfort shoe business. There’s always something keeping me busy, so business is good.

North Branford Patch: How has the Cobbler profession changed over the years?

Montalto: It has evolved. I don’t use any of the ancient equipment. I learned on the ancient equipment, so I appreciate the new equipment that makes things more efficient. I’m part of the Shoe Service Institute of America. I’ll go to their trade shows and seminars to learn how to use all of the modern tools, adhesives and techniques.

North Branford Patch: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Montalto: The challenging situations I comes across. I’m always looking for that foot problem that I can solve. I like trying to find out and dig for the solutions to the problems brought to me. It’s something different every day.

North Branford Patch: Where could we find you around town when you’re not working?

Montalto: I’m always around at your local deli or restaurant. I like to support the local businesses. You’ll find be somewhere around town.

North Branford Patch: When did you know that this is what you wanted to do with your life?

Montalto: I had my mind set up when I was young that I would be in business for myself at 22 or 23. I did that so that’s an accomplishment. I was out of the business for around two years to see what it would be like at a factory job and it wasn’t for me. I wouldn’t have done it any other way.

North Branford Patch: Are there any forthcoming events we should know about?

Montalto: I’m helping sponsor the social event “Raise the Community” hosted by the Totoket Business Association. It’s like the old barn-raising parties. It’s at the Sportsplex on Saturday, March 24 from 8 p.m. until midnight. There’s a minimum $10 donation that goes to the Community Gift Fund. There’s going to be light refreshments, music, dancing, door prizes, a few surprises and a cash bar. You can call (203) 484-4729 to buy tickets.