Oddities

Strange times and strange people in Texas begat strange situations. I bought these boots from a Deep Ellum (Dallas, TX) used shoe peddler, back in the day. He told me the boots were “Sea Turtle,” and that’s an endangered species kind of thing. The boots, as it turns out, are Vintage Alligator Crocodile Belly, NOT Sea Turtle, as I was sold. Which is okay, as the karma of wearing around sea turtle is probably not a good thing. I don’t know, for sure. The boots have been resoled twice in my 20+ years of ownership. They used to be my “fancy dress, impress the girls” footwear, but these days, the boots have been sitting for several years, as I prefer sandals when I have to dress up. Socks with sandals. Much more classy.

Couple of features, the cobbler who last worked on them was quite famous for his shop in Austin’s Hyde Park. Since then, the boots have barely been worn. San Antonio’s flood of Ought-Seven soaked this pair of boots, and I haven’t worn them since, well, long before that.

Other features include the carefully scalloped uppers, a fancy touch pretty uncommon these days. Speaks to a day and an age when the term “hand-crafted” really meant something.

The boots are worn, broken-in, so to speak, but not worn out as vintage boots tend to go. They have lots of life left, and are in good condition. While the photo — it’s from a phone so there is that problem — doesn’t show it well, the original model number and size is still clearly visible in one boot, Justin W249 (registered) 9 1/2 D.

I used to “oil” the boots about once a year, saddle soap and mink’s oil, but these have been sitting in the closet for the last few years. Time to let them find proud, new owners.

I have an old boot box I’ll package them, should arrive safe and sound. Shipping is USPS Priority, and will cost about $17, so that’s added to the buyer’s price. If I get a deal with that nice lady at the post office, and she ships it for less, I’ll refund the difference. If it costs more, I’ll bill you. For starters, though, let’s guess at $17 for shipping.

I ship when I’ve been paid, all the usual eBay terms and conditions apply. Email me if you have any questions, I’ll be happy to answer and include other images, as I can.

More oddities: Austin’s Nature’s Treasures. Available today.