The history of Trunks goes back many centuries and has been traced to ancient times. They may have their origins in Egypt. They have been used as luggage traditionally, and until the suitcase became popular, most travelers carried trunks with them in which to transport their clothing and other belongings. All kinds of people have used trunks throughout history. In the last one hundred and fifty years of American history, people from all walks of life such as immigrants, circus performers, and traveling salesmen would carry their belongings in trunks.
There have been many different styles of trunks. Early Egyptian chests or trunks were built with a flat top. Many of the older trunks were made from plain wood or from animal hide (deer, cow, or horse, depending on the types of fauna in the region). One unique type of trunk was the wicker trunk, which is said to have originated in ancient Egypt.
Coffee Trunk Table
Hide or leather trunks were common in the 1600s and 1700s. As technology improved in the 1800s and early 1900s and the locomotive was invented, there were more people traveling and more demand for trunks, as well as more efficient ways of manufacturing them. Tastes were changing as well. As a result, the newer trunks were covered in canvas or metal. Often individual trunk manufacturers would create their own signature look by ornamenting them with brass add-ons such as tacks and clasps, embossing, or with elaborate trim.
Manufacturers would come up with other ways to distinguish their trunks, by including more compartments or engineering their hinges so that they were easier to open and close. However, more and more people demanded a more lightweight piece of luggage to carry, and by the mid-twentieth century, suitcases had become popular and had replaced the trunk.
Some of the popular styles of trunks in the nineteenth and early twentieth century are listed below:
Jenny Lind trunks were named for the Swedish opera singer Jenny Lind. The signature shape of this brand of trunk is the hourglass. These trunks were popular in the late nineteenth century and are one the most sought after trunks today.
Steamer trunks have a flat top, but are usually much smaller in height than most other flat-top trunks. They were designed to fit into the compartments beneath the seats on trains and boats. They were used like carry-on luggage is today. They got their name because people who owned them would typically take steamship voyages.
Barrel stave trunks had a dome top and a unique design. Because of the way the staves were set on the trunk, when seen from certain angles this trunk resembled a barrel. These were manufactured in the mid-to-late nineteenth century.
Wall trunks are known for their ability to be placed flush against the wall once opened all the way. They feature unique hinges that allow for this capability. Dresser trunks are a specific kind of wall trunk, and are named for the form they took when opened all the way up and set on their sides. The shape of the trunk along with the included drawers made it look like a miniature dresser. Sometimes these trunks even contained a mirror. Dresser trunks came on the market in the first decade of the twentieth century.
Trunks have become popular vintage items for collectors and antique enthusiasts. When properly restored, some trunks, depending on the rarity or level of historical importance, can fetch a high selling price as an important piece of history.
Special Price!!! SEI Pyramid Trunk Cocktail Table
Oct 29, 2011 15:22:17
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SEI Pyramid Trunk Cocktail Table Feature
- Cocktail table with trunk-style storage; 37-3/4 by 20-1/2 by 17-1/4 inches
- Crafted from wood with black hardware and Mission Oak finish
- Design includes angled sides, tapered feet, and full-length lid
- Ample inner storage to stow blankets, boardgames, and remote controls
- Some assembly is required; also available in espresso finish
SEI Pyramid Trunk Cocktail Table Overview
What a combination of contemporary style and usefulness! These wooden trunks will not only help you organize your living room by giving you extra storage, but also look great. Black metal handles complete this simple design. - 37.75" x 20.5" x 17.25" Tall - Mission Oak Finish - Black metal hardware - Lid opens for lots of storage - Assembly requiredSAVE NOW on the special offers below!
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