Oct. 21, 2004 — Bernard Kauffman, 99, died in Bethesda, Md., Oct. 4. A lifelong resident of Brooklyn, N.Y., he presided for decades over H. Kauffman & Sons Saddlery Company, the 130-year-old landmark retailer founded by his grandfather. The company epitomized the essence and history of old New York.
One of the unique and outstanding personalities in the “boot and saddle” business, Bernard always described his profession as “harness maker” stressing the craft that was the bedrock of the transportation industry for centuries.
As the horse evolved from a necessity to a source of pleasure and enjoyment, Kauffman’s survived the fate of many of its competitors by adapting and innovating its merchandising to the changes. After World War II Bernard brought European brands like Stübben, Passier, Kieffer, Pariani and many others to America.
Bernard was married 67 years to the late Elsie Kauffman and was the father of Charles and Ronald. His grandchildren include Robert, Ross, Richard, Rodd, Alexandra Horowitz and Nicole Roberts; and great-grandson Frederick Horowitz.
