Brass Hardware - Canvas - Leather Trim
History Known
Chilton & Guthrie Trunk Company - Louisville - Maker
Circa 1910
SOLD
An upscale true steamer size trunk from the early 1900's. Made by Chilton and Guthrie Trunk and
Bag out of Louisville, KY. . Guthrie I know was dealing in higher end trunks since the 1860's and
was more of a regional supplier of trunks so less well known outside the Louisville area. Still, I have
come across a few spanning some 50 years of their production and they have all been of top
quality. Usually with something a little special or unique about them and this one is no exception.
It is a smaller size steamer trunk measuring 30.5"L X 13.5"H X 19.25"W which was designed to stow
away as carry on in cabins of steamships and locomotives. It is canvas covered with real leather
trim and exceptional brass hardware (the gold is not paint, hardware or nails) I would guess custom
made for or by this trunk maker. The nailing is super tight and done with brass capped nails,
bunches of them. The scalloped leather trim is quite aged and was placed under a protective
coating. Not perfect but with good character and necessary. The canvas is freshly painted sort of
an olive color and a finish was applied over the paint. This trunk has strap keepers but I have yet to
apply the straps. Sort of a nice side table size so thought a person may want the space the straps
take up. If not, I will apply the straps so will offer it both ways below. Triple thick leather handles
were applied and the bottom is canvas as well and perfect.
The interior has been covered in a tan stretch suede and perfectly suited for storage. The original
makers label is in some disrepair but I have it and will include with the trunk.
It is not too often that we know the history of the original owner. While no proof exists and I am not
offering this trunk as anything other than a trunk. I do know with great certainty that it belonged to a
Mr. Charles H. Gibson who was the president of the Louisville Bridge Company.
