The Shoemakers’ Shop of Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia has posted an excellent photo-essay of making a pair of 18th Century Jack Boots.  Their leather work is phenomenal and shows real craftsmanship.  Any leather worker can appreciate this even if they never intend to make a pair of shoes.  This pair is particularly interesting with the fire-tempering and waxing that occurs.  Their research is in-depth and is well documented.

Stages of heating and finishing the boot.

Perfectly stitched in the traditional manner.

The upper coming together.

Ready for waxing.

A judicious use of heat.  The grass keep the temperature relatively low.

A finished specimen.  Ready for riding.Have a look at their Jack Boot page.  There is commentary with each photo.  While not full of detail, the images go a long way to understanding the process.