Bootblack's Garb Deemed Worthy Cause

A crude rendering of young Michael Schmindt plying his trade, done in honor of his valiant efforts during the strike.

NEW PEEBLESHIRE, Eng. - After a long and arduous standoff, a boisterous group of soot-covered men and boys marched away from the towne square amid shouts of victory. This was the scene on Saturday morning in the small village of New Peebleshire, which has seen much blood spilt over the recent striking of the local bootblack's guild.

The standoff began almost two weeks ago, when the local magistrate, Thomas Pildridge, passed a bill forcing all bootblacks to wear light blue jumpsuits. The act of legislation, Pildridge said, was in an effort to encouarge tourism. "I think I speak for most when I say that bootblacks ought to look like any other good craftsmen," said Pildridge. "It hurts our image when visitors are bombarded by filthy streetdwellers."

The tension escalated when the bootblacks received the new uniforms at their bi-weekly guild meeting. Guild representative Grady McStiltser made an urgent call to the press to issue this statement: "Bootblacksmanship is a craft long steeped in the tradition of serving all clasifications of our society, from the well-to-do down to the lowest commoner. We refuse any and all attempts to rob us of the identity that has been passed down by our fathers. We take great pride in the fresh layer of soot that comes from a hard day's polishing, and we will continue to wear what little our wages afford us. It may not be good enough for the magistrate, but it'll always be good enough for us."

What resulted was a power struggle that sent shockwaves through the tiny village. Pildridge sent police into the streets to "weed out" any bootblack that refused conformity. The policemen were met with staunch opposition which broke into a violent struggle, leaving one young bootblack, 12-year old Michael Schmindt, seriously wounded. Michael was treated for a wound to the head, but is now recovering safely at home. For the bootblacks, however, the incident served as the last straw.

The bootblacks staged a strike on Tuesday and, instead of shining shoes, sat together on the steps of the magistrates office. After only three days, the bootblack's presence was beginning to be missed. "I was walking around with dull, filthy boots," said local man, William Adager. "I've been so accustomed to having my shoes look like mirrors. I guess it's one of the things in life you take for granted. For only a shilling you can look like a million pounds." Adager's lament rang true for much of the community, and Pildridge soon felt pressure from all sides.

On Saturday morning, Pildridge reversed the legislation, which sent the striking craftsmen into a frenzy. "It's just such a good feeling, you know?" McStiltser laughed. "To be able to serve your fellow man just as you are: filth, fingerless gloves and all." When reached for comment, magistrate Pildridge merely smiled and look toward the ground.

"The true spirit of these men has won out. Whether it be the cobbler, the liquorsmith, or even the bootblack, it's the heart of the workman that has made New Peebleshire great. I'm just glad to have whistle-clean boots again!" Pildridge laughed for the first time in what seemed like months. It was a good day indeed.