Posted 4 years ago
Pezz1
(2 items)
Found this sitting in a barn. Owner said it has been there for at least 50 years. Label on top says Bingham Trunk Co. Buffalo NY. As you can see on the interior photo it is not solid wood. On the label it says "5 Ply Construction / 3 Ply Veneer Then it list "something" galvanized fiber(first word is unreadable.
What I thought was interesting was the double dowels located on the front and side. Also has the protectors on all sides. Seems like what ever was to be stored in this was well protected. The trunk is solid and extremely sturdy.
Was thinking that maybe this was 1930's. Not sure if anyone has anything to share as I can not find another one like it and there s not much listed about the company that I could find. Also wanted some advice on how to clean it up without damaging the covering. It is in good shape just has staining on it.
Thanks!
We have restored a couple of these - You can try a wipe on product called ReColor made by Rust-Oleum - it’s a clear (stinky) liquid and the kit includes a wipe and gloves. I think Target even carries it.
One trunk we restored had a label from Amelia Earhart Trunks that made it a collectible. Amelia Earhart sold a line of trunks and suitcases to fund her flying hobby.
The other we restored for a friend was in her family for decades - It had been in a fire and had smoke and water damage - it also cleaned up well - just quickly clear coat it after cleaning.
Other than that, we have painted them with a faux leather look finish. You can have fun with these, as there are so many available for not much cost. A fun DIY project
I would say 30's or 40's it is vulcanized fiber, you don't have to clean it with anything special, 0000 steel wool and Murphy oil soap, this is a travel trunk, for the most part there wasn't a lot of records or information left on most trunk co. to be found.