Historic Hood River
Wallet
5-11-2026
Notes
Grace’s artifact this week goes way back in time:
This wallet is made from red Morocco leather and dates to 1833 or earlier. Morocco leather is a sumac-tanned goatskin that was sold in American colonies as early as the 18th century. This specific wallet features gold detailing and an expandable clasp. The inside contains a handwritten message: “Presented to C. Fox by Miss E.J. Corbett Jan.1,1833.” While our database shares little about how the wallet made its way to Hood River, its survival invites us to imagine the possibilities of its adventures, perhaps on the Oregon Trail and beyond.
Dale Nicol
This is a really nice example of leather being stitched using a sewing machine.
Prior to 1842 when the first sewing machine was patented in the US for specific use with leather, I guess the sewing machine used on this wallet was based on the 1790 design??
If someone else has details on early sewing machines for heavy material, it would be worthwhile to add.
L. E.
I wonder what the thread is made from. Evidently something durable.
Thorn
I remember when we had wallets. And money. And handwriting. At least we still have sewing machines.