Puller, Tack
Object number2005.127.7
Datec. 1930
MediumSteel/Wood
Credit LineGift of J. Dino DePaulo
DescriptionTool used for pulling tacks out of the soles of shoes during the shoe repair process. The nail puller consists of a steel two pronged claw, similar to a claw on a hammer, attached to a wooden base. The claw was used to snag a shoe nail or tack and pull it from the sole.Dimensions1 x 1 x 7 in. (2.5 x 2.5 x 17.8 cm)Historical NotesGuy "Ton" DePaulo used this tool to repair shoes at his shop on Bessemer Avenue in East Pittsburgh. Born in Naples, Italy, DePaulo immigrated to the United States in 1920. After learning the trade from an uncle, DePaulo started his own shoe repair shop while also working at nearby Westinghouse in order to make ends meet. Ton's Shoe Shop was in existence for over seventy years, from the 1930s through 2005. It was more than a business. It was also an active social center of the neighborhood where people gathered to discuss politics, sports, and other news of the day.
Previous owner
Guy DePaulo
Related institution
Ton's Shoe Shop
Related institution
Westinghouse
On View
On view
c. 1930
c. 1930
c. 1877
c. 1930
c. 1888
c. 1950
