A cordwainer is a craftsman who makes shoes from new leather. The term originates from the Middle Ages and comes from the word "cordovan," a type of leather made from the skin of Spanish goats in the town of Córdoba, Spain. Cordwainers are distinguished from cobblers, who traditionally repair shoes rather than create them from scratch. In history, the skills of a cordwainer were highly valued, as they required expertise in selecting and working with high-quality leather to produce durable and comfortable footwear. In London, there's still a guild known as the Worshipful Company of Cordwainers, which dates back to the 13th century!