Well, I think I arrived at my own answer. They are not shell leather. They had such little wear when I got them that creases had not developed - but I wore them Saturday and below shows the result.
Still, fairly well-made (they have a better look, feel and 'depth' than corrected grain would) and worth the four bucks to have a pair of oxblood wingtips I don't mind wearing on rainy days. These probably date from the '70s or early '80s (total guess) because I doubt that Stafford brand shoes have been made in the U.S.A. in a while. Feel free to correct me or add any info.
Gene,I've got the black version of those wigtips right there and I purchased them new in the early 90's. Mine are made in the U.S.A. also. I was in Penney's today and I don't remember seeing that style available any longer.