Meaning
A shoemaker who worked exclusively with new leather to make shoes and boots.
Description
The name cordwainer derives from Cordovan leather, a fine leather originally produced in Córdoba, Spain. Cordwainers made new footwear from fresh leather, cutting and stitching uppers to soles with great precision. The trade was one of the most organised in England, with the Worshipful Company of Cordwainers regulating the craft in London from medieval times. It was distinguished from cobbling, which involved repairing existing footwear rather than making new goods. Many cordwainers specialised in particular types of footwear for men, women or children.
Also Known As
Shoemaker, Bootmaker, Cobbler
Commonly Found In
- Census Returns
- Trade Directories
- Apprenticeship Records
- Parish Registers
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