Thomas Jefferson Wallet

Thomas Jefferson Wallet

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Ships to the lower 48.

This wallet is a faithful recreation of one owned by Thomas Jefferson in the early 19th century. It is handmade by Cassandra Reilly in Western Pennsylvania. 

It is made from vegetable-tanned kangaroo leather and is hand-rubbed with a blend of tallow, beeswax, and birch tar oil. The result is a thin yet extremely durable leather, with the deepening character that best approximates the English Kip material of Jefferson's original. Over time, the surface absorbs oils and burnishes under touch, darkening and polishing like well-loved wood. 

Cassandra hand-cuts, hand-scores, and hand-assembles every wallet. Marbled paper lining recalls Jefferson’s era, while the use of machine stitching ensures durability without sacrificing craft. 

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Made by Cassandra Reilly of Pastorum Carmina

Wallets are made in small batches in Cassandra’s workshop on Benedictine Farm in Western Pennsylvania.

Color That Deepens Naturally

Kangaroo leather develops a rich patina with use. The natural oils from your hands and the subtle friction of daily handling deepen its color over time, creating a wallet that grows darker, softer, and more personal with every day you carry it.

“I find as I grow older, I love those most, whom I loved first.” — Thomas Jefferson, 1789

  • Vegetable-Tanned Kangaroo Leather

    Imported from Australia, via Montana, this leather offers durability and a patina that deepens over time, echoing the qualities of 18th-century English kip leather.

  • Conditioned the 18th-Century Way

    Each hide is “stuffed” by hand with a historic blend of beef tallow, beeswax, birch tar oil, cod liver oil, and pine tar.

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A Cordwainer’s Craft

In her studio, Cassandra Reilly treats and finishes each hide by hand — cutting, shaping, and burnishing the leather to bring out its natural depth and warmth. Every wallet reflects the cordwainer’s craft: simple, enduring, and made to last.

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Wallet

  • Handmade

    With the exception of machine stiching, every aspect of the wallet's manufacture is by hand.

  • Kangaroo Leather

    Kangeroo Leather best approximates the historic English Kip leather used in the original wallet. Kip leather is a tight-grained leather between calfskin and steerhide.

  • Free Shipping

    Ships free via UPS ground directly from Cassandra's workshop.

3% of Profits to Bring Back the American Chestnut

Roseland is committed to helping return the iconic American chestnut to its native range. We will donate 3% of all unit-level profits at the end of 2024 to the American Chestnut Foundation and other similar efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I wash/dry the blanket?

We recommend a gentle wash cycle with warm water. Do not use any bleach or detergent with bleach additives. Tumble dry with low heat.

Does the Heirloom Warranty apply to the blanket?

Unfortunately it does not. It is unrealistic for Maine Heritage Weavers to repair individual blankets. Flat weave is inherently strong and durable and should last a lifetime as long as it is taken care of.

Are there any materials not sourced in America?

The blanket is 100% USDA certified American cotton from the Delta region.

What is the return policy for the Flat Weave blanket?

We accept returns within 30 days of when your order arrives. Blankets that  have been used, washed or damaged are not eligible for return or exchange.

How does exposure to sunlight or prolonged use affect the natural fiber’s longevity?

Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause yellowing to the white color and fading to natural cotton or dyed cotton.

What’s the process for removing stains?

Tips:

  • Remove the stain as soon as possible.
  • Heat sets stains, making them harder to remove.  Avoid running your blanket through the dryer until the stain has been removed.

Technique:

  • Pour small amount of bleach alternative (we recommend Tide plus bleach alternative) over the affected area.
  • Rinse with cold water while rubbing.
  • Repeat if needed.
  • Launder normally (see above).

How much shrinkage can I expect if I wash my bedspread or coverlet?

Our products are preshrunk. You can expect no more than 2% shrinkage, if any.