Fancy “turned shoe” c. 1840

These shoes are typical of a fancy shoe for women in the mid-nineteenth century. Labelled a “turned shoe” because they are constructed inside out and the “turned” – therefore allowing all the stitching to be hidden. They were often made of black silk or leather with narrow ribbons to tie around the ankle. This one is made of black satin. Pairs like these were produced throughout Essex County – commonly found in communities like Haverhill and Lynn.