The History of Leather in Bideford and North Devon
The manufacture of leather using oak and the production of various leather goods became one of England’s most significant and vital industries during the 18th century,
The advent of globalisation in the 19th Century caused its decline
Now in the early 21st century the craft is regrettably critically endangered.
The earliest accounts of tanning practices in Barnstaple came from evidence unearthed during archaeological digs in Barnstaple of the 1970’s, revealing leather buckets and remnants of apparel from the Saxon era.
These findings suggest that, well before the Norman conquest, Leather Craft was a fundamental commodity in every day life.
Not all leather was tanned using oak bark; many different types of barks and oils were utilised to produce a variety of unique finishes.
Bideford and the surrounding area were extensively exploited for their vast quantities of oak.
Demand surging during periods of colonisation and conflict.
The industrial period eventually denuded this Oak population in Devon
Leathers and Raw hide as a material were crucial to the area
From rawhide to wrap sail blocks, caulking wooden decks, leather for the plough harness, horse collars, whips, bridles, saddles, Britain was world renown for high-quality, durable leather goods.
A rich and diverse history.
From forest and field to the Fellmonger, producing clean rawhide, bated, soured, and ready for use by the tanner.
If you want to learn more Red Offers Historical talks on the history of leather work
