1920s–40s Kingston Advertising Knife – Red Goose Shoes & Friedman-Shelby – St. Louis Vintage Pocket Knife

This vintage advertising pocket knife is a charming relic from America's golden age of marketing, featuring dual branding for two iconic footwear lines: Friedman-Shelby Shoes ("Wear Friedman-Shelby Shoes – All Leather – All the Time") and Red Goose Shoes ("For Boys – For Girls"). Produced between the 1920s and 1940s, this slim, lightweight knife was likely a promotional giveaway through shoe stores associated with the Friedman-Shelby Shoe Company of St. Louis, Missouri.

Maker: Likely Colonial or Kingston (contracted production)
Blades: 2 – spear point and pen blade
Handle Material: Yellowed celluloid with crisp advertising etchings
Closed Length: Approx. 3 1/8"
Key Ring: None (designed for easy pocket carry)

Condition:
Both blades show surface wear, patina, and pitting consistent with age but remain functional. The celluloid handle covers are intact, securely pinned, and display clear advertising on both sides. Brass liners and steel pins exhibit typical aging. A fantastic survivor from the era of hardwearing promotional goods. See photos for complete details.

Historical Note:
The Friedman-Shelby Shoe Company was a prominent American shoe manufacturer founded in St. Louis in the late 19th century. It later merged into International Shoe Company, famous for its Red Goose Shoes line — a major brand for children’s footwear. Promotional pocket knives like this were popular giveaways, aimed at building long-term customer loyalty by putting a practical tool into customers’ daily lives. Surviving examples, especially with dual branding, are now prized collectibles among both knife and advertising enthusiasts.

More Historical Note:
This knife was produced by Kingston Cutlery Company, a prolific American knife maker based in St. Louis during the early-to-mid 20th century. Kingston specialized in mass-market knives and promotional goods, crafting practical tools for everyday Americans. Their partnership with major brands like Friedman-Shelby and Red Goose Shoes created lasting, collectible advertising pieces that captured a slice of American retail history.

Collector’s Note:
Knives advertising Friedman-Shelby and Red Goose Shoes are increasingly harder to find, especially with both logos intact and legible. This piece would make a standout addition to any vintage advertising collection, Americana display, or traditional knife gathering.

Disclaimer:
All knives in this shop are vintage or pre-owned unless stated otherwise. While many are in excellent condition, they may show normal signs of age or handling such as scuffs, blemishes, or blade wear. I try to document condition as accurately as possible in both the description and photos. Feel free to reach out with any questions!