In 1987, Col. Littleton founded his company on the premise that even if a store had the best to offer, what people really wanted were unique, personalized items. He set out to create products that would become priceless heirlooms to be passed down to the next generation and never sold at a yard sale. “Everything we sell has a heart” the Colonel often says.

What started with a few antique cufflinks and pocket knives, became a fine collection of items crafted as they would have been made 100 years ago. A Tennessee native, Col. Littleton personally designs each item, inspired by products from the past (think the Old West or period military) and brought to life in leather, wood, brass and canvas. Almost every item is made in America and can be personalized with an engraving or stamp. The legend of his work has created loyal customers around the world including presidents and A-list actors.

A few of our favorite travel items are his tie case, journal and shave kit.

Tie Case
You probably spent a lot of hard-earned money on your ties, so protect them from travel creases and stains. This tie case is made of durable khaki cotton canvas and trimmed in American steer hide with brass buckles. Its tri-fold design, secured by leather straps, holds up to a dozen ties. $132.

Journal
After your toothbrush and a credit card, make sure you pack a travel journal. Capture your own handwritten thoughts and travel experiences in this leather-bound journal made of American steer hide and dry milled for softness. The removable filler contains 130 sheets of recycled “desert haze” paper. It also includes Colonel’s No. 2 lead expedition pencil. $142.

Shave Kit
Made of canvas and leather trim with brass hardware, this is not the typical pop-open shave kit. It should not only withstand the battle scars of years of travel, but develop a look of time-tested character. The kit features a D-ring for hanging, a large zippered center compartment and three snap compartments. $232.

Col. Littleton’s shop is worth a visit and fittingly located in small-town America – Lynnville, Tennessee – about an hour’s drive from Nashville.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, November 17th, 2010 at 1:33 pm and is filed under Travel.