red cedar chest

Description

This chest is a vintage ACME Red Cedar Chest, manufactured by ACME Chests in South Bend, Indiana, USA, likely during the 1930s, based on its design and maker's mark. The chest features a rectangular cedar wood construction, designed to preserve contents (such as linens and clothing) due to the natural moth-repellent properties of cedar. The trademark plate inside the lid is labeled: ACME Chests, Red Class, South Bend, Indiana, USA.

The dimensions are approximately:

• Length: 3 ft 2 in
• Height: 15 in
• Depth: 19 in (and 11 in interior depth)

The chest appears to retain its original hardware and structure, though it has one broken rear foot and shows minor wear consistent with age.

Historical Context

ACME Chests specialized in cedar furniture during the early 20th century, particularly popular in the 1920s and 1930s. Their products were renowned for their craftsmanship and practicality, often marketed as "hope chests" for storing linens and keepsakes. A fire that destroyed their factory, mentioned in the chest’s history, reduced the availability of these chests, which may make them more desirable to collectors today.

Cedar chests like this one were often purchased as heirloom-quality furniture and were highly valued in the early 20th century, particularly during the Art Deco period.

Condition

• Strengths: The chest appears structurally intact aside from the noted damage to one rear foot. The cedar wood has retained its natural finish, and the hardware (including the lock plate) is intact.
• Weaknesses: Visible wear includes minor scratches and scuffs. A broken rear foot slightly impacts stability and may require repair.

Current Market Value

Given its history, craftsmanship, and current condition:

• Estimated Value: $250 to $400
  • The value is slightly reduced due to the broken foot and cosmetic wear. If professionally repaired, the chest’s value could increase toward the higher end of the range.

Selling Recommendations

1. Target Market: Advertise to antique collectors, vintage furniture enthusiasts, or those interested in early 20th-century American furniture.
2. Repairs: Repairing the broken foot could enhance its appeal and value.
3. Provenance: Provide any additional historical details about the ACME factory fire or the chest’s background to boost its desirability.

This cedar chest represents a charming piece of American furniture history and remains a functional and collectible item despite minor flaws.