Huron Snowshoe Appraisal

Vintage Wooden 'Huron' Style Snowshoe

This is a single vintage 'Huron' or 'Algonquin' style snowshoe, characterized by its elongated teardrop shape and a distinct tail that acts as a rudder to keep the shoe tracking straight in deep snow. The frame is constructed from a single piece of steam-bent ash wood, joined at the tail with a metal fastener. The interior consists of two horizontal wooden crossbars and a complex hand-woven webbing made of rawhide lacing (babiche). The webbing features a tighter, finer weave at the toe and heel sections, with a more robust, open hexagonal pattern in the central foot area to allow for snow drainage. Original leather bindings with metal buckles are still attached to the central master cord, showing significant age-related stiffening and cracking. The wood frame displays a rich, darkened amber patina consistent with an age of approximately 50 to 80 years (mid-20th century). Overall condition shows typical wear for a utilitarian object: there is some fraying and loosening of the rawhide lacing, scattered scuffs and superficial scratches on the frame, and oxidized metal components. No visible maker's marks are immediately apparent in the image, though they are often stamped on the crossbar or frame mid-section. This item showcases high-quality traditional craftsmanship, specifically in the tension and symmetry of the hand-laced babiche.