Wonderful pair of
1880’s wooden wheel and leather skates. A
conversation piece for an exercise room, family or rec room, sport bar or for restaurant
décor. Perfect on a shelf or hanging on
a wall. If they could only talk. From a time in the 1880-90s when skating on
wooden floor rinks was very popular. And yes, there was a skating rink in
Wyoming in the 1890s where the film Heaven’s Gate took place. And wooden wheel
skates were used.
Remarkable condition for their age and use. All original. Wooden wheels and wooden “sole”. Wood sole marked New Era Skate Boston PAT
July 3 83 (1883). 9-1/2”. All the leather strapping still there. Leather could
use a little “feeding”. Wood and heavy
metal mechanics underneath in very good condition. One wheel “cap” is missing; one small
screw missing on the left metal heel. Two front wheels on the right skate have
cracked with dry age but are intact and stable. Who knows, maybe the wheels
cracked in a toe to toe run-in in an 'early Derby' back in the day. Still and all a unique and rare
marvel if you appreciate the history. These were found by the last owner in an
attic in Shipshewana, Indiana in the 1970s. Overall skate 9-1/2 long x 2-1/2 wide
metal heel with 3-3/8 wide wheels. 4-1/2 to top of leather heel.
Pair As found and in ‘as is’ condition. Please check the
photos or ask.