Posted 12 years ago
djreynolds
(5 items)
I bought this trunk for 10.00 out of a old log cabin. Cannot find any pics like it. Has a replaced hinge, one broken latch, missing one wheel and tray missing. I want to restore this for my own use / no sale. I was curious about the age, value, color to finish it in and what (lithographs) to use when we clean up the inside. Any info. would be appreciated. Thanks from Arkansas
Your trunk looks to be from around 1890. The latches are unusual -- I do not recall seeing them on any other trunk. The value of course is a little low due to its condition -- you got a great deal nonetheless. The tin is in rough shape but restorable as well as the wood. Choosing wood stain for color is a personal choice -- due to some weathering I would go with a darker stain. I prefer to keep things as original as possible so painting the tin black again makes sense. There are lots of sites out there to tell you how to refinish this so you will not lack any info, on the matter. A fun project that will increase its value and make you proud you did it!!
What do you suggest to replace the lithographs inside? I included a pic but have not found anything on the web that compares.
One more thing, do you think the latches, corner/ decor pieces was black also or can I get away with using a gold leaf on them?
As far as the lithographs go any old picture that suits your fancy will do -- there were all kinds used at the time, so a photocopy reproduction would be suitable. The work scene on yours looks pretty cool -- perhaps an old winery book from the library would yield results. (there may be lithographs available out there somewhere) In terms of gold leaf paint on the hardware -- a personal choice. I never like the look of it myself but some do. (they would have been black originally)
Trunkman, thank you very much for your time. Will start on our project this weekend and will post finished results. I know they paper the inside of this trunks but I seen a beautiful one with the inside covered with quilted fabric which appealed to me which is something I can do and add grandma's touch to an heirloom for the future generation. Do I need to paper first the add this as an extra?
You are welcome -- happy always to talk trunk. If you want to cover it with paper and quilt I would paper first and then move to quilt -- nice touch. enjoy the project!