Old Western Union Trunk

[Hannah Bauman]

My fiancé and I love converting old pieces, but we never want to diminish the value of an item when we start working. We found this old trunk in a relative’s shed. Her husband worked for The Western Union Telegraph Co., but we don’t have any other details about the trunk. It’s in pretty rough shape (center lock is broken from someone losing the key and appears the outside is repainted), but the hinges are in great condition and the metal work on the side clamps is beautiful (no rust or mold). Please, let me know if you think this item is trash or treasure. Thanks so much!

Attachments:

1. 

   IMG_2753.jpg
   

2. 

   IMG_2748.jpg
   

3. 

   IMG_2750.jpg
   

4. 

   IMG_2753-1.jpg
   

[Tim Manasterski]

It looks to be in pretty rough shape. I would estimate its worth in the $50-150 dollar range. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. It appears your steamer trunk is your treasure, I would say go for it on the restoration. However, that’s completely up to you. Here’s another Taylor made steamer trunk from 1859 for sale for $120 dollars, if you want to purchase another one:

http://rockford-il.americanlisted.com/art-antiques/vintage-taylormade-1859-steamer-storage-trunk-chest-coffee-table-120_28506139.html

[Author]

Posts