Nevada: The birthplace of riveted jeans

A revolutionary idea born in Nevada more than 150 years ago helped create what many consider one of America’s most iconic garments: the modern blue jean.

“The Silver State, riveting is where it all began,” said Tracey Panek, director of archives and historian for Levi Strauss & Co.

The year was 1868 when Jacob Davis, a Russian immigrant who worked as a tailor across several states in the 19th century, moved to Reno and eventually opened his own tailoring business along North Virginia Street. Davis made supplies such as tents, blankets and other materials for laborers working in mines and railroads.

“Jacob Davis was a customer of Levi Strauss and came up with the idea of riveting trousers. It was the birth of the modern blue jean,” Panek said.

Panek said the invention traces back to an effort to create something practical and durable. “The story of the invention of the modern blue jean begins with a horse blanket and the idea of creating something practical using rivets, but for pants,” she said.

In 1870, as history recalls, a customer approached Davis and asked him to create a pair of work pants that would protect her husband. Davis made pants with copper rivets reinforcing the seams so they would not split.

Many of Davis’ materials were shipped from San Francisco by merchant and dry-goods supplier Levi Strauss. Panek said Davis then sought a formal partnership to protect the idea. “Then invited a Levi to patent the idea with him,” she said. “So that relationship, which started over 150 years ago, created a fashion revolution with the blue jeans that we see all around the globe today.”

The patent for the copper-riveted work pants was issued May 20, 1873, to Jacob Davis and Levi Strauss & Company.

Davis later moved to San Francisco, where he died in 1908. In Reno, a plaque honoring his life and legacy can be found at 211 N. Virginia St.

Panek also tied the story to a national milestone. “What greater way to celebrate America’s 250th than to recognize that invention,” she said.

This story is one of many that highlight Nevada as America celebrates its 250th birthday in July. These stories air every Thursday on News4 - FOX11. If you have an idea that highlights why the Silver State is so special, send the newsroom an email at news@mynews4.com, or email Anthony directly at aramos@sbgtv.com. Just include "Amazing America" in the subject line.
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