I inherited this hope chest from my great grandmother, it has been very lovingly cared for, unfortunately due to the current economy hard decisions need to be made. This is a BEAUTIFUL antique hope chest that I believe may have been made between 1920 and 1938. It has the original finish and hardware, there is no key for the lock but it is a push button lock. There is a spring loaded trim where the lid meets the chest for a secure fit. The screws holding the hinges to the lid have fallen out, I have at least two of the original screws, lid still secures with push lock. The original warranty and the two paper blue birds are still attached to the inside of the lid. The paper work states that it is a Dillingham Blue Bird Cedar Chest made in Sheboygan, WI. It warranties the chest against any moth damage and offers up to $250 if any moth damage occurs. Under the piece there is a label that states the serial number 051699, the style number is unreadable as the paper is deteriorating. I have seen estimates of anywhere from $150 to $1200 for the Dillingham Chests, I am hoping that someone can give me a more specific appraisal on my particular chest. I will be listing this piece locally as soon as I get an appraisal.
