Original Paint - Wood Construction w/Steel Trim & Brass Hardware
Most Likely 1920's to World War II Era
$450
Includes Shipping
of heavy equipment such as planes, tanks, tracked vehicles, or large guns. It probably would mount
in the back of a jeep on hangers and then driven to the item needing repair. Based on what I can see
of its construction, I would guess it to be from the 1920-1940 era. It measures a good size 34"L X
19.25"H X 18.25"W and is wood construction with thick metal plate trim, brass hardware (they were
painted), and a ton of the old style flat head screws. It is built to military specs and weighs upwards
of 90lbs empty. The top appears to be a couple layers of solid oak and overall it would survive
anything short of a direct shell hit.
When found, the front wood cover was missing unfortunately. With that door most likely went the
original stenciling and I have no reference to other pieces such as this. The door was rebuilt which
removes and flips for in use position and the paint computer matched to the rest of this chest. It is
shown in the last two photo's. I will leave any stenciling up to the buyer which presents a nice
opportunity for personal affiliation. Other than that, things are complete and it is being offered as
shown. All other paint is original and has been cleaned up to be suitable for inside display. Behind
the front cover are the 3 original drawers which are dovetailed and screwed and operate perfectly.
There are various compartments in the drawers for tools and replacement parts and everything is
as sound as day one. Each of the drawer dividers are sunk into the drawer bottom to be watertight.
The very bottom has thick wood runners and things are extremely sound.
Stripped and refinished this would be a beautiful piece. However, my guess is that one tool chest
like this serviced a larger number of items and therefore was made in a limited number. So, offered
here is a very nice old war chest that I can see becoming more desirable over time.
Did you know? --- Many of the traditional trunk manufacturers shifted gears when called upon for
service. Their huge industrial base supported the efforts of the United States in the manufacturing
of the vast majority of wooden cases, various boxes, footlockers and numerous other items during
the world wars. While the decreased overseas travel during the world wars and depression of the
1930's caused the demise of many, others thrived in obscurity supporting the military during a
turbulent era.
**Note- There is much speculation above as to the exact date and use of this item. Your assistance
in getting the facts straight would be appreciated. Also, this will ship in 2 packages which raises our
cost a fair amount. It is simply difficult for a single delivery person to handle and the drawers, which
weigh about 25lbs, will be shipped in another container.
