Bootblacking, a practice that might seem like a niche or specialized skill to many, has been a deep part of my life for as long as I can remember. It is not just about polishing boots. It is about respecting leather, caring for it with precision, having Pride in my possessions, and honoring the tradition of craftsmanship passed down through generations. My journey into this craft began long before I knew what bootblacking was, thanks to the discipline instilled in me by my father, a proud U.S. Marine, and my experiences growing up surrounded by military and veteran traditions.
Lessons from My Father
My father’s influence in my life cannot be overstated. As a Marine, he upheld the values of discipline, honor, and respect, and he taught me the importance of precision from a young age. One of the most formative lessons he instilled in me was how to care for leather, and pride in all that I do. Whether it was boots, belts, or jackets, he made sure I knew how to maintain and treat leather properly. For my father, leather was not just a material. It was a symbol of integrity, strength, and dedication. This lesson stuck with me throughout my life.
Just like any child. I would roll my eyes and gripe about these tasks. It wasn't until I was in my thirties that I truly felt thankful for these lessons.
On top of that, my father also taught me the delicate art of caring for brass. Growing up as a trumpet and bugle player in various bands, I was required to keep my instruments in pristine condition. The importance of maintaining brass, cleaning it, shining it, ensuring its longevity, paralleled the discipline of caring for leather. Both were about respect and upkeep, not just for the object, but for the tradition and legacy they represented.
It was lessons of instilling core values into my soul.
A Blend of Leadership and Leather
By the time I reached my teenage years, my life continued to intertwine with military traditions. I joined the Police Explorers program, a formative experience that further instilled discipline and responsibility into my young life. This was where I learned how to serve and care for others, always holding myself to a high standard. Alongside this, I became the captain of our American Legion, Junior color guard team at the age 16-17.
Being a part of our American Legions’ squad was an honor, and we often came in first and second place in competitions. As the captain, I was tasked not only with leading the team but also with ensuring that our uniforms and equipment were always in top shape. Leather was always part of our gear, our boots, our gloves, and even our belts, and I learned early on how to care for each item. My father’s lessons continued to shape how I approached this responsibility, and it was clear to me that leather care wasn’t just about appearance. It was about preserving the legacy of those who had served before us.
As I grew older, I took a break from bootblacking. Life’s responsibilities took over, and I shifted my focus when I adopted my daughter. I wasn’t in the Leather community at that time, and my skills, though still sharp in my mind, were no longer put to use. I wasn’t owned by a Leatherman or in a position to care for the leather of someone else, and so the craft faded from my life, even though I always remembered it fondly.
However, as time passed, I found myself drawn to the Leather community. This time, I was eager to pick up where I had left off. Now that I am in a place where I can not only appreciate the art of leather care but also actively engage with the community, I have a sense of fulfillment and purpose. I now have the chance to revive my bootblacking skills and use them to serve those I deeply care about. My Masters, who are also on this journey with me, are the first ones I will tend to. They will sit in my chair, and I will care for their leather with the same respect and dedication that my father taught me.
Funny how your thought process shifts. You can stop focusing on abuse and focus on a skill I honed. You can find some happiness in trauma.
The Road Ahead
As I step back into this craft, I will be starting small. I plan to hone my skills using leather pieces from second hand stores for now. These pieces will allow me to practice and perfect my technique, learning as I go, and building a connection with each item I care for. When I sit before the chair to care for my Masters' leather, I know it will be a deeply personal and meaningful act.
Bootblacking is not just about making leather shine. It is about preserving tradition, respecting the past, and carrying that knowledge forward to future generations. For me, it is also a way to honor my father’s teachings and to bring new meaning to an old craft. I’m excited to continue this journey, polishing the leather and the brass, and sitting in that pride and feeling of purpose.
Bootblacking is more than a skill. It is a legacy. It is about discipline, respect, and above all, care. I am eager to share this journey with my Masters, as well as with others in the Leather community. It is a revival of an old passion, and I look forward to what lies ahead.