Origins and History of the Wrangler Chore Jacket: 1. Workwear Roots (1940s–1950s): • Wrangler, originally part of Blue Bell Inc., launched in 1947 and primarily focused on making durable workwear for cowboys and rodeo performers. • Chore jackets like this one were introduced as practical outerwear for laborers, farmers, and ranchers. They were constructed from heavy-duty fabrics like denim or canvas with multiple large pockets for tools and utility. 2. Design Features: • The jacket you provided features four front pockets, a corduroy collar, and large buttons—hallmark elements of traditional chore coats. • These jackets often used triple-stitching, reinforced rivets, and bar tacks at stress points for added durability. • The corduroy collar was especially useful for comfort and warmth during cooler months while maintaining durability. 3. Wrangler Specifics: • Wrangler’s chore jackets typically had a more Western cut compared to Eastern workwear brands like Carhartt or Pointer Brand. • Some versions included blanket linings for additional warmth, and some had branding or patches that marked collaborations or were used as uniforms. 4. Modern Influence: • Today, vintage Wrangler chore jackets are appreciated both for their rugged functionality and their Americana aesthetic. • They’ve become iconic pieces in vintage and workwear fashion scenes, often collected for their fade patterns, history, and craftsmanship. 1. RN Number (RN 15220): • This RN belongs to Blue Bell, Inc., the original parent company of Wrangler before it was acquired by VF Corporation. • Blue Bell was active under that name primarily up until the early 1980s, so this tag suggests your jacket likely predates that. 2. Printed Size and Care Label: • The style of the label with red print, a simple font, and minimal branding is very consistent with 1960s to early 1970s workwear labels. • Labels from the 80s onward often included more branding and graphic elements (e.g., Wrangler logos, more complex care instructions). 3. Wool Blanket Lining and “UNION MADE” Stamp: • The blanket lining and small paper union tag are classic indicators of vintage American workwear. The tag appears to be from the Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America (ACWA)—a union active through the mid-1970s before merging. • These tags were common in garments made from the 1950s through the mid-1970s. ⸻ Estimated Era: Late 1960s to Early 1970s This Wrangler chore jacket is likely from this period, making it a true vintage piece—especially cool given it was made during the height of American denim and workwear production. #wrangler #vintagewrangler #chorejacket #denimjacket #americanworkwear #vintageworkwear #selvedgedenim #madeinusa #vintagestyle #grailedfinds