Leather Suitcase by Forsyth

A large high quality leather hide suitcase by R.W. Forsyth Ltd of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Circa 1920.

This case is extremely well made, as you would expect from this maker. In excellent condition made from high grade leather, with matching heavy duty protective corners and finely trimmed soft interior leather lining. The lid is supported by similarly matching leather hinge straps, and the sturdy handle is beautifully shaped for a good grip, with blue/black sides. The top of the case is embossed with the owner's initials A. B. W. The maker's name is finely embossed in scripted form on the front of the case, with Edinburgh and Glasgow stamped either side, but hidden by the lid when closed. The maker's stamp dates it to after 1902, when the business became limited. Additionally, the Edinburgh store was not acquired until 1906. Sorry, no key.

Dimensions: Width 76 cm; Depth = 45 cm; Height = 20cm.

* R W Forsyth, ladies' and gents' outfitter.
Born in the Lothians, Forsyth came to Glasgow as a nineteen-year old and gained experience of clothing retailing with several city firms. In 1872 he set up in business as hosier, glover and shirtmaker in Renfield Street. Success led to expansion, and he gradually acquired all the properties around the corner of Renfield Street and Gordon Street. These buildings were demolished and a new department store was built on the site in 1897.

The success of the new store allowed Forsyth to expand his business further, including a new store on Edinburgh's Princes Street in 1906. Another new venture was the establishment of a clothing manufacturing factory of the Wallace-Scott Co in Cathcart. Forsyth continued to take a close interest in the business into his old age, and it remained in the family after his death.