What did the old shoe and boot makers use to waterproof them

[chrisash]

We have many options to waterproof leather these days from rain and the like

How was it done in the old days for things like shoe's boots saddle bags etc  and how effective were they

[Matt S]

Dubbin, or any form of grease or fat that was handy. Works fairly well so long as you appreciate they will never be Welly boot waterproof and you reapply the stuff frequently.

[fredk]

They also used shellac varnish. I believe shellac is still used on the boots of the Household Cavalry, the long ones worn for official duties