In 1563 Queen Elizabeth bought six shoehorns from her shoemaker, Garrett Johnson. She’s purchase 6 shoehorns per year following that from Johnson.

Queen Elizabeth steel shoehorns from her blacksmiths, Gilbert Polson and Richard Jeffrey. She also orders more shoehorns for her personal collection.

Shoemaking was a cottage industry. They would sew uppers, usually one size, that was sold to a shoemaker, who would sort them according to size and whether designed for a man or woman. During this time period, shoes were sold in one size for both feet. In order to break them in, new shoes had to be worn for about six months before fitting more comfortably. It’s hard to believe that there was no such thing as a right foot and a left foot.

No doubt during the following decades, shoehorns were made from many different materials, such as, animal horn, steel, iron, copper, bronze, brass, wood, leather, bone, and ivory. Although it’s possible that some shoehorns could have been made of gold and silver, there is no record of it until circa 1870.

In 1760, the Industrial Revolution commenced, reshaping economies and societies worldwide.

In 1840, the Industrial Revolution reached its zenith, characterized by widespread mechanization and urbanization across Europe and North America. However, it also marked the beginning of a shift towards newer technologies and industries, marking the end of the initial phase of industrialization.

A shoemaker/inventor who was issued a patent in 1857 on a sewing machine that could sew soles to the vamp. Lyman Blake (1835-1883) subsequently sold his patent in 1858 to Gordon McKay, of McKay Sole Sewing Machine Company for $6,000 in addition to $62,000 future profits. Blake was also began working for McKay.

Gordon McKay (1821-1903) Issued a patent on a sewing machine that could sew leather uppers to hard leather soles.

In 1862 McKay was issued another patent.

In 1866, the Whiting Manufacturing Company was founded, becoming a prominent manufacturer of sterling silver flatware and hollowware in the United States.

In 1870, the Second Industrial Revolution commenced, characterized by advancements in steel production, electricity, and chemical manufacturing, leading to unprecedented economic growth and technological innovation.

1870 marked the pinnacle of the Silver Craze, a period fueled by increased demand for silverware and decorative items, lasting until 1920. During this time, silver became a symbol of prosperity and refinement, influencing various aspects of design and culture worldwide.

In 1872, Dominick & Haff began their silversmith business, specializing in high-quality sterling silver flatware and luxury goods.

In 1876, the first patent for the button hook was issued, making it easier for people to fasten their clothes. This invention simplified the task of buttoning garments, improving dressing routines for many.

In 1876, George W. Shiebler launched his silversmithing business, crafting high-quality silverware and luxury items.

In 1880, the Machine Age began, heralding an era of mechanization and industrialization that transformed manufacturing processes worldwide. This period witnessed the widespread adoption of machinery in various industries, revolutionizing production and shaping modern society.

A Dutch Guiana shoemaker who invented the Shoe Lasting Machine for which he was issued a US Patent in 1883. Metzeliger’s invention allowed for increased production, which made shoes more available and more affordable by decreasing the cost of production. In 1991, the US Post Office issued the 14th Black Heritage Postage Stamp, honoring his invention that revolutionized the shoe industry.

In 1885, the McKay Lasting Machine was introduced, revolutionizing the shoemaking industry by automating the process of attaching soles to shoes. This innovation marked a significant advancement in footwear manufacturing, increasing efficiency and standardizing quality.

In 1889, Dominick & Haff were incorporated, solidifying their position as a leading manufacturer of sterling silverware and luxury goods.

Among Several Different Shoemakers

In 1914, the Second Industrial Revolution came to an end, marking a significant shift in industrial and technological advancements as economies transitioned towards new innovations and economic structures amidst the outbreak of World War I.

Between 1970 and 2000, the Third Industrial Revolution began, characterized by the rise of digital technology, automation, and globalization, transforming industries and economies worldwide.

In 1928, Reed & Barton’s acquisition of Dominick & Haff impacted the sterling silver industry, altering market dynamics and influencing the production and distribution of sterling silver flatware and luxury items.