So what exactly is Plug Ugly?

Back in the early 1800s, the first firefighters to put water on the fire were paid by the insurance companies. The competing local fire departments would often fight, coming to blows, over the privilege and the payout afterward.

During this time in history, water mains were made from wood. The fire department (usually volunteers) would head out to the fire, dig up the cobbles down to the main, then chop into the main so that they could secure the hoses from their pumpers. When finished fighting the fire, they'd seal the main with -- you guessed it -- a "fire plug." The next time there was a fire in the neighborhood, they'd dig up the plug and not have to cut into the main.

Hence the term plug. 

Engine crews, knowing that whoever controlled the water would extinguish the fire, would send the meanest, toughest, goons they had ahead of the pumper to guard the plug. Anyone from another crew who came near it would have to fight him.

This is where the phrase plug ugly comes from.

The original plug ugly firefighters of the 1800's knew that providing for their families meant they had to protect their plug. The men that worked by their sides relied on them as well so they had to be at the top of their game and always be ready for a fight. We strive to ensure that whatever you purchase from us is ready and able to make it through your daily battles. 

Each and everyone of us have something we view as needing our protection. That could be your family, job or even as simple as a prized possession. Our leather products are created with that same passion in mind.

A firefighter owned business, Plug Ugly Leather is a small operation ran by My wife and I in Olympia, Washington. We strive to ensure each and every customer gets exceptional customer service and a product that exceeds their expectation. Whether you are looking for something to fill a functional need at the station or just wanting something for your daily life, we can work with you to meet that need.