Description
Ullathorne & Co. Boxwood Shoe Sizing Rule
Specialist footwear trade measuring tool | An unusual boxwood shoemaker’s rule from the days of traditional boot and shoe fitting
This Ullathorne & Co. shoe sizing rule is a fascinating survivor from the bootmaking and footwear trade. Manufactured from boxwood with brass fittings and a sliding measuring mechanism, it was designed to determine shoe sizes accurately before the widespread adoption of modern Brannock-style foot measuring devices.
Unlike an ordinary folding rule, this specialist tool was intended specifically for measuring foot length and translating that measurement into the sizing systems used by shoemakers and footwear retailers. The sliding indicator allows the user to position the gauge against the foot and read the corresponding size directly from the graduated scale.
The rule is marked “Ullathorne & Co.”, a Sheffield-based manufacturer known for producing measuring, marking and specialist trade tools during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Sheffield’s reputation for precision toolmaking made it a natural centre for the production of niche instruments such as this example.
Specialist footwear and shoe trade tools are becoming increasingly difficult to find, particularly examples that remain substantially complete. As a result, this rule will appeal not only to collectors of antique measuring tools, but also to those interested in bootmaking, shoemaking, leatherworking and retail history.
From the materials used we estimate the tool was made between the late nineteenth or early twentieth century.
Key Features:
- Brass fittings and sliding measurement mechanism.
- Specialist footwear trade measuring tool – 9″ long when folded.
- Designed for determining shoe sizes from foot measurements.
- Unusual and increasingly difficult-to-find trade tool.
- Strong appeal to collectors of measuring tools and shoemaking equipment.
- Interesting display piece illustrating the history of the footwear trade.
Condition
Good antique condition overall with honest wear consistent with age and use. The boxwood body displays marks, staining, minor bruising and darkening developed through years of workshop or retail use. The graduations remain visible and the sliding mechanism remains present. The brass fittings show age-related patina and wear. There are cosmetic signs of age throughout, but these contribute to the tool’s authenticity and character. Buyers should refer carefully to the photographs for their own assessment of condition, completeness and functionality.