Last, Shoe
Object number2005.127.1 a-c
Datec. 1930
MediumMetal
Credit LineGift of J. Dino DePaulo
DescriptionShoe last and jack set consisting of shoe jack and two lasts. The jack (base for lasts) consists of a round base attached to a cylindrical column. The base contains five bolt holes which were used to bolt the jack to the floor. One 9-inch shoe last and one 5.5-inch shoe last.Dimensions33 x 12 in. (83.8 x 30.5 cm)Marks(a)
At the top of the the jack is an inscription reading "No. 3."
On the base is the inscription "Ideal" which refers to the jack maker.
(b)
Inscription "97".
(c)
Inscription "94."
Historical NotesGuy "Ton" DePaulo used this shoe last and jack set 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
1875-1899
1950-1959
1875-1899
1875-1899
c. 2006
