Page 31 hen maintenance work at Armidale Town Hall uncovered a pair of small leather shoes hidden deep under the building, caretakers were taken aback. “I was surprised when the little boots were brought through the trapdoor in the Armidale Town Hall floor,” said Armidale Regional Council caretaker Jamie McAuley. “It was obvious they had not seen the light of day for many years, and it felt strange bringing them to the surface.” Puzzling over their story, and sensing the significance of the find, Jamie took the boots to the team at Armidale Folk Museum. Together, they began researching. Why were the boots under Town Hall? How long had they been there? According to museum assistant Eva Rummery, the shoes are workers shoes and possibly date to the late 1800’s. “Finds like this are not unusual for builders as there is a long tradition of concealed shoes,” she said. “The practice originates from 16th century Europe. Shoes, or other charms, were hidden in house chimneys, beneath floors, above ceilings, and around doors and windows. “They were believed to act as protective charms, warding off evil and bringing good fortune to the building’s occupants.” Historians have several theories to explain the origins of the custom. Some suggest that evil spirits dislike the smell of burning leather, which would result when shoes were placed in chimneys. Others believe that the container like shape of a boot could trap demons or witches. Shoes have also long been associated with fertility, adding another potential layer of meaning. “Although the tradition began in Europe, concealed shoes have been unearthed at many sites across Australia – including under the Sydney Harbour Bridge,” said Eva. “European colonists clearly continued to find the practice important. Given that shoes were such expensive items, in the 16th century and the 19th century when Armidale Town Hall was built, the decision to place them in the foundations is significant.” Understanding the historical context of the Armidale Town Hall shoes, the Folk Museum team and the caretakers chose to return them to their original resting place. “Some may say it was coincidental, but there were a few things that did not go to plan while those shoes were out from under Armidale Town Hall,” said Jamie. “I am glad they are back where they belong, safeguarding the building for future generations.” W
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