The illustration, above, is from Rena's patent application for a 'one-piece foldable overshoe.' In part, the application reads, "A further consideration in designing footwear of this class, especially for women, is that the overshoe is so constructed as to detract as little as possible from the appearance of the conventional shoes of the wearer. Another object of the invention is to provide a shoe of this class described which is adapted to be constructed of a transparent material whereby to reveal the color and design of underlying conventional footwear." Meaning, Rena wanted her high status shoes to be visible, while wearing her rubber galoshes, in rain & snow storms. Rena started this patent request in July 1948 and was finally awarded the patent for this invention in September 1953.
Mrs. Rena Bell Hardman, just one of the many strong, determined women in our long Gaylord history.
