In its manufacturing heyday, Norway, Maine was called the “Snowshoe Capital of the World”. One of the major producers was the Tubbs Snowshoe Company. Formed in 1906, Tubbs has been producing snowshoes for over 100 years. The company has undergone many ownership changes, but snowshoes with the “Norway Maine” designation date from founding until an early 1930s move of the company to Vermont.
This Alaskan-style pair is labeled “Klondike Model 13x60 No. 76”. The partially-worn labels read:
This Filling Guaranteed Not To Sag. “The Tubbs Snowshoe” Manufactured By W.F. Tubbs - Norway, Maine U.S.A.
These snowshoes are in remarkable condition, considering that they are approximately 100 years old. The lacing is nearly perfect, with parts retaining the original sheen. The white ash frames are fully intact, and almost look like the day they left the factory. The “H-style” bindings have been treated with leather conditioner, and the buckles have been cleaned to remove some of the brass oxidation - but still retain a lot of the time-earned patina. One of the leather cross-straps is missing, and a few of the buckles have broken, but the presentation is still splendid. No other restoration has been performed other than light cleaning.
A true “shed find”; in fact from a Skifabrikk employee’s family shed! The owner was likely the employee’s grandfather, who we know was a pretty tall guy!
The pair will look great on display, but also, for the adventurous, could still function outdoors. Your choice!
Manufacturer: Tubbs Snowshoe Company, Norway Maine Manufacturing date: likely 1920s Style: Alaskan Model: Klondike No 76 Height: 60” Width at center: 13” Binding style: H
