By Jared Major | 1st February 2024
As we celebrate Black History Month, it is only fitting to shine a spotlight on a local artisan, whose work not only preserved the art of cobbling but also weaves a compelling narrative of resilience, heritage, and passion. As his nephew, I, Jared Major, will take a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey of a man who left an indelible mark on our neighborhood and imparted to me a profound love for vintage, thrifting, and upcycling.
Hezekiah ''John'' Singleton, a revered local shoe cobbler and designer, stood as a beacon of craftsmanship and a testament to the rich history of the Charleston African American community. Uncle Hezekiah's journey began in the vibrant local neighborhood of Union Heights in 1976. It was here, amidst the community he cherished, that he laid the foundation of his shoemaking legacy. The workshop was not just a place to repair soles and stitch leather; it was a gathering spot where the essence of the Union Heights community flourished. He built his loyal customer base around relationships forged through trust and shared experiences. For more than 30 years, customers flocked to his shop for the warmth and authenticity that radiated from the heart of the man behind the counter.
Not only was he a cobbler, but also a self proclaimed cowboy! His typical day look was a pair of blue jeans, cowboy boots with intricate detailing, an open leather vest, and a Stetson hat he wore when he stepped out of the shop. My earliest memories with my uncle were frequent trips to Goodwill. On weekends, he would take my mother and I along with him on many thrifting excursions. When on the hunt for reclaimed materials, he would scour the stores for leather goods and western wear. At a young age, I internalized so much of his discerning eye and his appreciation for potential in the discarded. It wasn’t long before I was bringing back my own personal haul from our thrifting trips.
By 9 years old, I started walking to his workshop after school to hang out and check out the scene. Like a true cobbler’s shop, the hanging bell greeted me, along with the distinct fragrance of aged leather. Large industrial machinery lined half of the shop, while the other half was occupied with shelving for shoes, hats, a vending machine from the 80s, and a waiting area. In addition to being a craftsman in leather repair, he also had original footwear designs out on display and available for purchase. As a child, I would quietly appreciate the meticulous transformation process, as he worked away on worn-out belts and boots. During his breaks, he would walk me through each process step by step while explaining the machinery.
As I reflect on these memories with him and their connection to my career as a designer, I am forever grateful to have shared a close proximity to his creativity. Although Uncle Hezekiah is no longer with us, his impact on my family and the local community remain in remembrance. As we honor Black History Month, we pay homage to Hezekiah “John” Singleton — a shoemaker, a designer, and a man whose legacy continues to stride through the streets of Union Heights and beyond.
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