Hessian (boot)

The Hessian (/ˈhɛsiən/; from Hesse in Germany) is a style of light boot that became popular from the beginning of the 19th century.[1]

Hessian boots worn by British hussar officer Winston Churchill, 1895

History and description

First worn by German soldiers in the 18th century, these military riding boots became popular in England, particularly during the Regency period (1811–1820), with their polished leather and ornamental tassels. Initially used as standard issue footwear for light cavalry regiments, especially hussars, they would become widely worn by civilians as well.[2]

The boots had a low heel, and a semi-pointed toe that made them practical for mounted troops, as they allowed easy use of stirrups.[3] They reached to the knee and had a decorative tassel at the top of each shaft, with a "v" notch in front.[4] The Hessian boot would evolve into the rubber work boots known as "wellies" and the cowboy boot.

See also

References
  1. Carman, W.Y. (1977). A Dictionary of Military Uniform. p. 72. ISBN 0-684-15130-8.
  2. Fiona McDonald (30 July 2006). Shoes and Boots Through History. Gareth Stevens. ISBN 978-0-8368-6857-9. Retrieved 26 January 2012.
  3. Chambers's encyclopaedia: a dictionary of universal knowledge. W. & R. Chambers, Limited. 1901. pp. 321–. Retrieved 27 January 2012.
  4. Carman, W.Y. (1977). A Dictionary of Military Uniform. p. 72. ISBN 0-684-15130-8.
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