Relics of the American West: 1850-1920
Lot 2115:
Description
These remarkable “ersatz” boots represent a rare glimpse into 19th-century American military or civilian improvisation, likely utilized during the Civil War or the subsequent Indian Wars. The construction features a rugged, blackened leather or rubberized vamp joined to a thick, rough-out brown leather ankle wrap, characteristic of period utilitarian footwear. The standout feature is the multi-part wooden soles, which are reinforced with iron “horseshoe” plates at both the heel and the toe to prevent splitting and provide traction in muddy or marshy terrain. These heavy-duty soles were a practical solution to the rapid rot of traditional leather in the field. This pair shows significant signs of age and field use, including oxidation on the iron hardware, drying and minor cracking of the leather uppers, and expected scuffing and wear to the wooden bases. H 6.5″, W 3.5″, D 11.25″ Please see photos for condition.
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