Trunk or crate

1850-1920

Measurements

26-1/4 in x 43-1/2 in x 26-5/8 in

Materials

White pine

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, The David Wilson Mansion, Inc.

Accession Number

1971.1464

Provenance

Ex coll. Mrs. E. Tatnall (Mary Corbit) Warner

Comments

Each of the six sides of the rectangular crate or trunk is made of multiple boards.  The sides are dovetailed and reinforced with two iron right-angle brackets.  Two battens or cleats, attached with modern screws, reinforce the top and back.  The top attaches to the body of the trunk with three iron strap hinges that look modern.  Two box locks recessed into the front board secure the lid.  A base molding encircles the bottom of the crate.  

The incongruous hinges used in this trunk suggest a particular requirement of the person ordering it made--probably Mrs. Mary Corbit Warner.  Use of two locks in the front and two lifting handles on each side indicates that the trunk held valuable and heavy contents, perhaps silver.