Crouch And Fitzgerald - Maker
Leather Over Wood
Circa 1887
$650
Includes Shipping
goods and generally is recognized as one of the finest trunk makers in American history. Still open
today on Madison Ave, they are the oldest surviving trunk related company in existence in the
United States. President F.D. Roosevelt would be an example of their past clients. In their heyday,
they had two locations on Broadway and one on 6th Ave, New York City.
Measuring 36.5"L X 12.5"H X 21"W, this style of trunk is considered to be the true steamer trunk.
They may also be referred to as cabin trunks as this size often accompanied the traveler to their
cabin or berthing area on ships and trains. Their size allowed them to be stowed under the beds or
seating in the sometimes tight quarters. Other trunks were often taken to storage areas.
This trunk would date to about 1887 or so, a baggage label was attached dating to 1889 and it was
not the first one placed on there. Everything about this trunk is of fine quality. The exterior covering
is leather as is the trim which is secured by numerous, tightly spaced nails. The hardware is heavy
made and much of it being solid brass, no brass coating or brass over copper, solid. Located on
the wood slats and around the metal banding are other various brass buttons and attachment
hardware. There are a few metal clamps and patches that are actually original repairs I believe made
by Crouch and Fitzgerald as one of the replacement buttons is of a slightly different style but
stamped with their name. These are not new repairs and they are not distracting at all. The bottom is
leather covered as well and reflects what is seen on the top, if not better. On the side is the red
monogrammed initials of the original owner who's name is known to me.
Of note is that the many of the nails holding the hardware and wood slats are brass capped in the
shape of tiny Jenny Lind buttons. The latches are stamped with the "C&F" initials, the brass makers
label is secure on the outside top, and the bottom of the brass lock is carved with their full name.
or display as you wish. Care of the interior would consist of simply wiping it down with a damp rag
or even a little furniture polish would not hurt as there is a protective coating. The makers label
remains and is in exceptional condition. The decorative ribbons surrounding the label are original
as well and done in the style usually seen by this maker. The original tray is also present and in
unusually good condition. The tray has an attached top that bi-folds open to reveal a divided
storage area. All three leather tabs and their brass snaps are present and in good shape along with
a small lift tab. To access the storage area under the tray, you simply need to lift it up and it folds
into the trunk top. To secure it there, a brass catch was built into the front of the tray and a small
lever can be flipped that is on the bottom of the tray. Works perfectly.
Also seen on this trunk is that the stay which holds the lid open is built into the side of the trunk
wall.