Hello!
I have been researching up and down for the origins of this chest that I recently inhereted from my desceased grandmother. Apparently, it came over in covered wagon from the east to the west (New Mexico). I unfortunately don't remember much more than that of the stories she told me about it.
As you can see, there is a card listing a set of date, an apparent Camp Coffin, and a list of what I can imagine are 3 US army soldiers. Was this a Spanish-American War camp chest? The hammered steel compartment tells me that maybe it was used to hold ice? I'd love to know more about this chest and if it is of any value. Mostly because it saw some poor wear in the last 5-8 years and I want to refinish it personally if it isn't worth much or professionally if it is.
Best,
Andrew
