The Leather Museum

After the Walsall coffee morning, some of us walked over to the Walsall Leather Museum where we met a few others there. It was a warm day- one of the first signs of spring! 

The man there explained the history of the leather history in Walsall and how they are well known for making saddlers for horses and several leather items like wallets, purses, belts and key rings. 

Walsall in the 19th century became one of the greatest centres for saddlers and leather goods trades in Europe and is still popular with 100 leather companies based in the town. 

He also talked about the history of the Black Country towns like Willenhall is well known for making locks, and Darleston for nuts and bolts.

   

He also showed us snakeskin leather from an anaconda-  it was massive! 

   

At the end of the tour members of the deaf community had a go at making their personalised key ring using stamps and using a machine. It was a fascinating afternoon we all truly enjoyed ourselves and learned of the rich history of Walsall and the leatherworking trade in Walsall.

  

Did you know Deaf people used to work in the leather trade in Walsall? 

As far we are aware- 2 people worked making saddles, jodhpurs, and various leather goods for 30 years and another person for 50 years before retiring! 

 

 

This would have not been possible without the funding from Comic Relief