Posted 10 years ago
Hmac1984
(1 item)
Ok, so here is what I know.
It is a Barrel Stave Trunk (from what I have researched online) and it was purchased in Prince Edward Island, Canada. The middle latch appears to have been replaced sometime around 1969-1977 because it is a completely different color and style from the other two that appear to be original. I got the date from the impression on the center latch which reads "STAR LOCK WORKS PHI A pat'd Mar.69 & Apr.77" The leather straps are still attached and I included a picture. There are initials M.J.K stamped on the sides under the straps. Its also on four very small original wheels which are small and metal and on the bottom of each corner. The top is domed slightly and is made of wood, metal and a greenish colored canvas. It really looks like someone tried to take care of it and I would like to know if someone could possibly date it or might know how to find the manufacturer? Unfortunately the steel plate that would have contained the original information (the one behind the latch) is missing. HELP!
I would think that your trunk is more of a dome top trunk than a barrel stave trunk -- barrel stave trunks have a much higher center point thank this one. The date on the lock was the patent date of the lock but not necessarily when the trunk was built -- although it is a sage bet that this trunk was made late 1880's to early 1890's. The center latch and plate is original to the trunk -- it was not uncommon to have brass locks and cast iron latches at the time. Sanding and then tung oiling the slats would significantly spruce this trunk up and a good soap and water scrub of the canvas would help too. I often put gun oil on the metal parts to enhance the look. (I have a similar one in style on my posts except it is zinc covered) All in all a nice example of a well built trunk from this era -- thanks for the post and welcome to Collectors Weekly...