Posted 4 years ago
DknightNZ
(1 item)
Hello, Can anyone shed some light on the age and possible origins of a very old trunk I was recently given.
It came with no history as it was a second hand find years ago. Its in great structural condition but lacks any type of interior now.
The only markings are on the very unusual lock. I haven't seen this type before and it says " Patent secure staples & joints" I have included a picture of this.
Glad of any information someone may have :)
Cheers
D
UPDATE : I have found a small plate inside the top lid (new pic attached) which appears to be from FARRA BROS, MANUFACTURING, DUNEDIN New Zealand. This company still exists as just FARRA ENGINERING (they make much bigger stuff now :) I have contacted them for any more info they may be able to give
It's a British made trunk. Below is A link to the lock manufacturer.
J. Legge history.thanks for the post.
http://www.historywebsite.co.uk/Museum/locks/gazetteer/gazlegge.htm
Is the top metal?
Wow. They are made of STEEL! I bet your is the deluxe version with the fleur-de-lis decorations on top! You can't sit on that one! Is it heavy empty??
https://www.ebay.com/itm/JONES-BROS-CO-TRAVEL-steamer-METAL-TRUNK-Wood-strips-Wheels-1900-/223464015565
Wow. They are made of STEEL! I bet your is the deluxe version with the fleur-de-lis decorations on top! You can't sit on that one! Is it heavy empty??
https://www.ebay.com/itm/JONES-BROS-CO-TRAVEL-steamer-METAL-TRUNK-Wood-strips-Wheels-1900-/223464015565
Hi Celine, Yes the top is all metal in fact the entire thing is metal with the brass latch.
It does have the pointy decorations on top which I have learnt now are called fleur-de-lis :) and all are there and in good condition apart from the rust.
Thanks for the link I will check that out now.
Hi Drill, Thanks for that link. very interesting reading the history of the lock makers. I still can not find any reference to this type of lock. As it doesn't have the 3 leg logo I'm guessing its pretty early on.
Turns out This is NOT a British made chest but a New Zealand made chest. Made by a company called Farra Manufacturing in Dunedin. Est 1863. Im guessing they used a LEGGE lock from Britan.