Meet Duck Head: An American Original, Now at Union Hall Supply Co.
Some brands are new. Others have been getting it right for generations.
We’re excited to welcome Duck Head to the lineup at Union Hall Supply Co., now available at both our Saratoga Springs and Albany, NY locations.
With more than 160 years of history behind the name, Duck Head is built around the kind of style we appreciate most: classic, easygoing, and made to last.
It’s a brand with a story—and one that feels right at home at Union Hall.
It All Started in 1865
Duck Head’s story begins in Nashville in 1865, when brothers George and Joe O’Bryan began repurposing surplus U.S. Army tent material into durable work pants. At a time when supplies were scarce, practicality and quality weren’t selling points—they were necessities.
The rugged cotton canvas they used was known as “duck” cloth, which eventually inspired the Duck Head name. In 1906, after attempts to trademark simply “Duck,” the brothers added “Head” and introduced the mallard that would become the brand’s signature.
Over the decades, Duck Head continued to build its reputation for dependable American sportswear. During World War II, the company was commissioned to produce uniforms for millions of American soldiers, and in 1949, country music legend Hank Williams Sr. became the brand’s first ambassador.
From Workwear to an American Prep Icon
By the late 1970s, Duck Head was about to become known for something else entirely: khakis.
In 1978, the company purchased 10,000 yards of cotton twill at a time when polyester dominated the market. Using the fabric to create classic chinos finished with Duck Head’s now-iconic gold mallard patch, the brand found an unexpected following among college students—starting at Ole Miss and quickly spreading across Southern campuses.
The pants became so recognizable that, according to the brand, many people simply referred to khakis as “Duck Heads.”
That mix of collegiate prep, Southern sporting tradition and lived-in practicality helped turn Duck Head into an American sportswear staple.
A Classic, Reintroduced
Today, Duck Head takes that heritage and makes it feel relevant again.
Think well-made chinos, button-downs, polos, sweaters, outerwear and everyday staples designed to be worn rather than saved for a special occasion. The brand describes its modern customer as the “Social Sportsman”—someone equally at home outdoors, at the game, grabbing a drink with friends or heading out for the weekend.
That easy versatility is a big part of why we wanted Duck Head at Union Hall.
“I was drawn to Duck Head because it has that authentic American heritage that feels incredibly relevant right now. The clothes are beautifully made and rooted in classic style, but there’s always a fresh twist that keeps them from feeling predictable. It’s familiar, confident and easy to wear—the kind of brand that already feels at home at Union Hall.”
— Heidi Owen West, Owner of Union Hall Supply Co.
Why Duck Head Belongs at Union Hall Supply Co.
At Union Hall Supply Co., we’ve always believed the best pieces in a guy’s closet are the ones he reaches for again and again.
Duck Head fits that philosophy perfectly.
There’s history behind it without feeling dated. There’s personality without trying too hard. And there’s a focus on quality, functionality and timeless style that makes each piece feel like something you’ll own—and actually wear—for years.
Whether you remember the gold patch from years ago or you’re discovering the mallard for the first time, we’re excited to introduce you to Duck Head.
Shop Duck Head now at Union Hall Supply Co. in Saratoga Springs and Albany, NY.
An American original since 1865. A new addition to Union Hall.
