Shoeblack was a Victorian name for someone who shined strangers shoes for a living. In Victorian London shoeblacks were licensed and brigades were established, distinguished by their red uniform, to provide employment to 'poor and honest boys'. The first London shoeblack brigade was the Ragged Schools brigade of Saffron-Hill. In 1888 itt was report... Found on http://www.probertencyclopaedia.com/browse/CXS.HTM