Posted 3 years ago
MMNJ
(40 items)
This is a wooden box, possibly pine, with a date of February 28, 1916, stenciled in black paint on the lower part of the inside lid (the lettering is very faded and hard to make out in photos). There are no other identifying marks. It measures 25 x 14 x 12” and was painted black at some point. Does anyone know whether it had a specific use- military (WWI era), foot locker, etc.?
I would seriously doubt this is a military item. The lock is wrong because military boxes were designed to be stacked for shipment and the top lock would prevent an even stack. Also the handles are out of place. Back in 1916 military had rope, wooden or heavy duty handles depending on the weight and contents. The handles on this box look more like drawer pulls with small screws anchoring them. I would look for a civilian or civil defense type use.
Looks like a home made box. Not the cut down strap hinges. Still, a nice piece!
Thanks for the input, fhrjr2 and Congcu. Good points on those details. I have no idea if the top lock and handles were original or added later on. Anyway I’m quite happy if it’s a home-made or customized item.