Rectangular Leather Hat Box

A handsome leather case made to carry a top hat, with original lining to the interior and a central brass lock with two keys ; circa 1940. Makers mark for Mark Cross.

Dimensions: 33 cm/13 inches (width) x 19 cm/7½ inches (depth) x 26.5 cm/10⅛ inches (height).

In 1845 Irishman Henry Cross and his son Mark established Mark Cross & Co. as saddlers and harness makers in Boston U.S.A. They were known for their work using fine English hide and pigskin. In 1875, 17 year old Patrick Murphy joined Mark Cross & Co. as a salesman, but it was Murphy’s craftsmanship that broadened the company by making other fine leather goods, such as luggage, wallets and jewell cases.

Murphy had been sent to Walsall, England to study English leather craftsmanship. When he returned to Boston he was determined to open a leather works in Walsall that would supply the company solely with finely finished goods. When Mark Cross passed away, Murphy purchased the business for $6,000. Mark Cross & Co. officially became abbreviated to Mark Cross.

In 1882, Murphy moved Mark Cross Co. to New York, opening a shop on Broadway. The saddlery and leather goods were produced in Walsall, England for export to America. 10 years later, Mark Cross shop opened on Fifth Avenue. The 1890’s were wondrous for the company. By 1893, there had a shop in New York, Boston and London.

Once the automobile became popular, Murphy knew there would no longer be such a need for fine saddlery and harnesses so he brought first-time access to European luxuries yet unknown to the American market. Mark Cross became known for the newest and finest products available. These included leather goods, luggage, china, crystal, furniture, polo equipment and attire, men’s and women’s apparel, shoes, golf equipment and much more.