Bill for repairs to, and purchases of, shoes and boots from J. Cook, with mention of the Wellington Boot.
Published / Created:
England, 1816.
Physical Description:
1 sheet ; 16 x 18 cm.
Collection:
Rare Books and Manuscripts
Copyright Status:
Copyright Not Evaluated
Classification:
Archives & Manuscripts
Notes:
The Wellington first made its appearance at Waterloo in 1815, but the earliest advertisements for them did not appear until two years later. As gentlemen discarded their knee breeches in favor of trousers, and the Hessian boot lost its popularity, the new men's fashion turned to the Wellington Boot. Arthur Wellesley, the first Duke of Wellington, instructed his shoemaker, Hoby of St. James Street, London, to modify the 18th century boot. The new "Wellington Boot," designed in calfskin leather and cut closer around the leg, was durable for battle but comfortable for everyday life. The Duke is seen wearing the boots, which are tasselled, in an 1815 potrait by James Lonsdale.