Flat Top Trunk Standswell / Perkiomen

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goode444
Posted by goode444
14 years ago
AI Appraisal
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Description

This flat top trunk is from Standswell / Perkiomen in Philidelphia. It is in very good condition with the original cloth liner and original compartments. It is covered with leather and canvas, with leather handles on the sides. This trunk has not been refinished. It is in it's original state. There is no rust or rot anywhere on this trunk. This trunk came from a bed and breakfast that was used as a field hospital during the battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania. It is from 1870-1920.Standswell started making trunks in 1870 they sold their company to Perkiomen, and the Perkoimen factory in Philly had a fire and burned down in 1920, and they went out of business.I'm looking for an approximate year of manufacturing, and it's value. I'm also interested in possibly selling this peice.
Category General Antiques and Collectibles
Medium wood, leather, canvas, cloth
Distinguishing marks Standswell/ Perkiomen sticker
Condition Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item 24" tall X 36 " wide
Date Period 1870-1920
Weight 60-100 lbs
History The trunk was given to me by a friend. It has been sitting in a carriage house at a bed and breakfast that was used as a civil war hospital during the battle of gettysburg
eBay Auction Link
Price Paid (If known) gift from friend
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Collector Discussion

Do you recognize this piece? Collectors often identify maker marks, share comparable sales, or suggest additional research steps.

A
AlexAtlas 🌱 Newbie 14 years ago

$25 to $100 depending on area and local market. The trunk is from the 1900-1930's. Absolutely no connection with civil war. Still, a nice steamer trunk!
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goode444 🌱 Newbie 14 years ago

Thanks so much for the info.I did about a total of 10 hours of research yesterday, lol, and  I found out Perkiomen bought out Standswell(1870), and their factory in Philly burned down in 1920 and they went out of business, so I know that the trunk was made between 1870- 1920 sometime. I cannot find any others online. I found 1 that came a little close, but none of these types of trunks are ever in good condition. This one is dusty with some scratches on the metal, but other than that, it barely looks used. Could I ask you,..... should I restore the trunk or would it depreciate it's value ? Thank so much for taking the time to help me out. ;u) Brigid
A
AlexAtlas 🌱 Newbie 14 years ago

You can also tell alot by the STYLE of the piece, which is why I placed this one between 1900 and 1920. Afraid any closer production date would have to come from someone that specializes in trunks. It's vaguely irrelevant, as this was a mass-produced item.

I'd leave it as is, as you said it is almost new anyway, what's to restore? If the inside is mold-free and clan/dry, they are great for storing extra blankets and quilts.
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goode444 🌱 Newbie 14 years ago

Thanks again, for all your info. I was thinking about cleaning the canvas and leather up, it was very dusty from sitting around.. Wasn't too sure if I should do that or not. As far as the date goes, i was just curious .Thanks again for all your help. Take care. ;u) Brigid

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