MUSKRAT

At one time the muskrat was a nuisance. Now he is regarded as an important commodity in almost every state. He gets his name from the sweet odor of musk which he emits in the spring. He isn’t always as gentle as his odor, however. He is a vest pocket edition of the beaver. He has webbed feet and a beaver-like tail – builds his house in beaver manner, with an underwater entrance.

The black muskrat, deepest in coloring and most rare, is associated with New Jersey, but generally comes from Maryland, Virginia, New York or Pennsylvania. Next in importance is the Northern muskrat, which has fuller Fur and sturdier leather. That from Texas and some other southern states is of excellent quality, too. Except for the black variety, the muskrats coloring is brown at the back, golden at the sides and silver on the belly. The skins are cut and matched accordingly. The back, or “natural” muskrat wears best; the sides or “golden” muskrat give secondary wear; while the belly or “silver” muskrat is classed as the most perishable. It is bought chiefly for its beauty of coloring and should not be given hard wear. Canadian pelts, while fully Furred, have thin leather; and therefore reinforcing is recommended for desirable service.

Muskrat Fur is rightfully thick and soft, with glistening over hairs. It is durable and warm for all-purpose wear.