These black canvas high-tops were worn by Jon Provost, the child actor who played Timmy on the television series Lassie (1957-64). Like many young sneaker owners, Provost customized his Keds by doodling on the rubber soles with a marker.
Since their invention in the early 1900s, sneakers have been a mainstay of childhood fashion, valued for their comfortable fit and sturdy construction as well as their style.