It began with Jasper Wayne in Louisville, Kentucky — raising four children and selling lace and leathers at markets across the country. His youngest, Michael, grew up in the trade and began traveling to living history events across the region, where he met Penny, his lifelong partner.

Michael and Penny traveled the US together — pow wows, rodeos, reenactments, black powder events. Together they built Real Leather into something special, crafting deer, elk and moose hides into pants, shirts and jackets by hand. Their two sons, Cody and Dillon, grew up alongside the business.

Kentucky Leather and Hides was born. A storefront opened in Sonora, Kentucky. Michael and Penny began collecting their own deer hides every winter, having them tanned and returned to craft leather clothing, lace and strapping — a true family operation.

Michael lost both kidneys and was placed on dialysis. For five years, the family worked tirelessly — keeping the business alive and keeping Michael well. Then came the call. A kidney. Hope restored. The family carried on together, stronger than ever.

In 2023, Kentucky Leather and Hides suffered its greatest loss. Michael Wayne was taken in a tragic accident. The man who built this legacy with his bare hands, his love for leather, and his devotion to his family was gone. But his spirit — and his work — lives on in every hide, every stitch, every product that leaves this store.