Vintage 1940's R W Forsyth Otter Fur Semi Dress Sporran
Vintage 1940's R W Forsyth Otter Fur Semi Dress Sporran - Originally purchased from the RW Forsyth shop in 1949
Vintage 1940's R W Forsyth Otter Fur semi dress sporran is a classic piece featuring a tooled leather flap, otter fur body, and three stylish leather tassels. Despite showing a slight rub on the edge under the flap due to previous use, this sporran is in excellent vintage condition, adding a touch of sophistication and history to any Highland dress ensemble.
R W Forsyth Highland Wear - RW Forsyth was born in the Lothians. Forsyth came to Glasgow as a nineteen-year old and gained his experience of clothing retailing with several city firms.
In 1872 Forsyth set up in business as ladies and gentleman’s hosier, shirtmaker and highland wear retailer in Renfield Street. His success led to an expansion, and he gradually acquired all the properties around the corner of Renfield Street and Gordon Street. The old buildings were demolished and a new department store was built on the site in 1897.
Forsyth’s department store was designed by J J Burnet and built at a cost of £25,000. Heating and lighting were state of the art, while a wide staircase and new electric lifts permitted the efficient movement of goods and people around the store. The success of the new store allowed Forsyth to expand his business further, including a new store on Edinburgh’s Princes Street.
