Bootjacks were utilitarian objects used to aid in removing cowboy boots. One of the most popular bootjacks was the“Naughty Nellie.” Originating in the 1850s, it was considered quite risqué. The way this object was used reveals much about the attitudes toward women at the time. To remove a boot, you stood behind Nellie and stepped on her bust or head to hold the bootjack firmly on the ground. Then you wedged your other foot in the V-shaped space between Nellie’s legs and yanked.
