Common Trunk Makers and Their History
For years, we’ve been gathering information about the most common trunk makers from years past. If we see a label on a truck or an advertisement in a magazine, we’ll put it here! You can also contribute by sending in a picture of a trunk label or something invigorating, please feel free to share it at trunks@brettunsvillage.com.
Trunk Makers
& Bags | and sold many trunks and also suitcasesmany of the cases were covered with walrus leather.They called their company the ABC of Trunks and Bags (for Abel Bach Co.) Some labels |
a brass tag on top | |
Boston; formerly John Baker & Co trunks & saddlery | |
wardrobe trunks and suitcases | |
(1930s?) trunks, usually covered in black trunk fibre | |
Lowell, Mass, est 1839 | |
Cincinatti, OH | |
San Francisco | |
Satchels, Established 1832, NE Corner of 13th & Sansom Streets, PhiladelphiaThanks to Kathy S for this one!
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of and Dealer in lap robes, trunks, bags, blankets, and general horse furnishings”48 Fairfield AveBridgeport, Conn.
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for this one | |
Co | |
trunks in the 1920s and 1930s.See some old magazine ads here
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in excellent condition made in 1880 at the Austin Trunk Factory, Austin TX. The address reads 611 Congress St. The street is now called Congress Avenue. It’ a round top with a woman’s picture and the maker’s logo has a cartoon man with an alligator. You may want to add the maker to your list since it’s not there yet. Best regards, -Matt Hall” Thanks, Matt!
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and harness maker, 9½ S. 4th StreetShown in 1825 Philadelphia City Directory(Special thanks to Matt Ainslie for providing info on makers from Philadelphia)
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Sons | for All Types of Travel |
Co. | House, Sole Leather Trunks150 Tremont Street, Boston, est 1826
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brass tag) Philadelphia | |
Trunks & Bags | on handle end caps |
& Travelling Bag Co. | Mass. |
label inside says Order #___ with trunk numberMinneapolis
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This trunk made expressly for Bates & Co., Leading dealers in Trunks, Boots, Shoes, Hats, Militaria, and BagsSomersworth, New Hampshire
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Co | Michigan – a large company with a lot of employees.See some old photos and labels here
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and Co. | |
NYThis company made quite a few trunks. More info here
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Label:“Manufacturers and Repairers of Sole Leather Trunks, Fancy Trunks, Valises, Carpet Bags, Dress Trunks, and Sample Cases, &c” Verified to be in business
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Thanks to Del Vosburg | |
1800s, LondonMany thanks to Paula for contributing this one
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and end caps | |
Biltmore Trunk Co | Frank Piteo started working at Biltmore in 1985 and is still making quality trunks
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May have been a retailer, or perhaps a descendant of Buffalo Trunk Mfg. Co. | |
Trunk Maker2713 Lincoln Ave, Chicago Thanks to Renelle U. for sending this one to us!
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Indianapolis, Indiana – thanks!)
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the owner of Books Trunk Co. Books and Jackson Co. between 1904 and 1942. He was born on August 28, 1879 in Huntingdon County, PA. Books married Vesta May Stofer on September 27, 1905. They had two kids, Otho Samuel Books and Marjorie May Books. Otho Leslie Books died on February 27, 1905, in San Diego, CA (submitted by Susie K. –
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Providence, Rhode Island | |
around in 1902. See their building here.Thanks to Cathy G. for discovering this company and passing along the info to us. | |
St.Thanks to Andy M. for discovering this company and passing along the info to us.
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Philadelphia City Directory | |
German immigrant who was a furniture/coffin maker) incorporated his growing business in 1906 as the Buffalo Trunk Manufacturing Company. He was however making trunks, (and much more) starting around 1879.Thanks very much to Charity Disbrow for sending this one in
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moved to Tremont Street, Boston 1850s | |
to Congress Street, Boston, 1840s, 1850s | |
Wisc.Black canvas trunks, many were very, very largeGeorge always signed the inside label that described the company’s history
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Many sizes of common trunks | |
Co | coatingsOur pal Grant Rice found a wardrobe trunk made by C&M with NYC on the tag. Thanks, Grant!
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Brass button trunks, also made shoes | |
in the 1920s and 30sThanks to Andy M. for discovering this company and passing along the info to us.
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377 N 2d StreetShown in 1825 Philadelphia City Directory
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Scott & Co. | Madison, Wisconsinand Wabash Avenue, Chicago“Fine Leather and Travel Goods of All Types”
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of Vaudeville Trunks | |
Leather Trunks & Luggage Products” | |
on lid tells who gave/received trunk | |
in 1856 | |
CityThanks to Andy M. for discovering this company and passing along the info to us.
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Company | Louisville, KentuckyGoods to Order, Trunks, Valises, & Traveling BagsThanks to Donald Driver for sending this one in.
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Label states “Made of Basswood” | |
Clinton, Massachusetts | |
sold trunks amde by others. | |
Baltimore “Manufacturer of Trunks of Every Description for Traveling, Packing, and Domestic Use”This guy also patented some guns
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Chicago, ILOperating in the 1860Special thanks to Sara V. for sending this info to us!
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in business 1838 | |
trunks New York City | |
Sons | Made to Order” |
Established 1900 | |
a lion standing next to it) | |
Street (also listed as such in this location in 1823 dir.)Shown in 1825 Philadelphia City Directory
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Los Angeles | |
Columbus, Ohio Makers of Fireproof Wardrobe Trunks(asbestos inside)
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Bag Co | (part of Seward?) – wardrobes |
Ave, Minneapolis, MNThanks to Wanda M for contributing this maker to our list | |
Co. | Brass Tag on top. Tel Main-5987Thanks to Warren Behm for this one.
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Street, ChicagoTrunks, Traveling Bags, Ladies Satchels, Etc.Sent in by Tim Harris. Thanks!
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No. 642 Main St. TERR HAUTE Ind. Sent in by Michael Holmes – Thanks!
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YorkTrunks, Bags, Hat Cases, &c
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est. 1830 Burlington, Vermont | |
patent #16118 | |
Co(also Mendel-Drucker)
| trunks913 Broadway, Cincinatti These trunks usually have his ‘D’ with a Lion and the words “Beauty and
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StreetShown in 1825 Philadelphia City DirectoryListed as a glass silverer on S. 6th St. in 1805, but had become a trunk maker at the address above by
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and CoTrunk Makers
| trunks with leather straps |
Date Dec 7, 1880LJD on metal corners
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Wall trunks, patent dates | |
or soNewark, NJThanks to Sommer for sending this one in!
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Trunk Co | Detroit, MIPatent date found on labels: May 25,1926
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Patent TrayOperated by Smith Brothers in OshKosh, WisconsinLater became OshKosh Trunk Co.
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Patent TrayOperated by Smith Brothers in OshKosh, WisconsinLater became OshKosh Trunk Co.
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his own (see Winship) | |
Co. | Trunks & Cases a Specialty” |
& Company | |
Factory | |
and Bag Co. | Chicago, Illinois Blue metal, lock by EagleSent in by Rebecca Haas – thanks a million!
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Trunk Co. | NW Corner of 3rd & Felix Streets |
in New York City | |
Co | IN Thanks to TJ Bynum for this one
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made wardrobes Founded by Goldsmith, along with Neverbreak, Nevermar, and others
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Sons | September 4, 1883Most have brass plate on front, some are sole leatherSome tags and labels are posted here
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these – strange lid configurationPatented March 1, 1887, Buffalo, NY
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Bag Co. | |
Alley(listed as such but in Rose Alley in 1823 dir.)Shown in 1825 Philadelphia City Directory
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Co. | |
Co. | 1868 |
Co | Canvas Covering |
two companies shared the same address in Baltimore | |
and Valises” Kansas City MOThanks to Cynthia Wong for sending this one in.
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Maker | Canvas covered box trunks |
I. | |
& Co. | Indianapolis |
Trunk Company | |
& Bag Co. | 8th Street“Manufacturer of Fine Traveling Trunks, Bags, Satchels, etc.” |
Co. | 8th Street, New York“Manufacturer of Fine Traveling Trunks, Bags, Satchels, etc.”
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Co. | Son. Props604 W. Girard avenue – 1011 N.6 th st., Philadelphia
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312 Market Street, Philadelphia. 1878 catalog shows Bridal trunks, Saratoga trunks, Monitor trunks, etc.Thanks to Marvin of ThisOldTrunk.Com for sending this one in
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trade names, including Neverbreak, Nevermar, Everlast, mostly in the 1910s to 1940s. In the 1940s Goldsmith made footlockers under contract to the US Army
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dresser trunksThanks to Andy M. for discovering this company and passing along the info to us. | |
with brass buttons and corners. Red criss-crossed ribbons on underside of lid | |
in 1873 (thanks, Hope!)Hip-roof style trunks
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and BagsThought by some to be a retail store only. No patents.
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Co. | trunks in the 1920s |
least part of their business was selling USA-made trunkswhich perhaps helps explain how so many immigrants had trunks made in the US. Thanks to Andy M. for discovering | |
Bag Co | manufacturing to Seward, common trunk styles |
| Name | Information |
| H and M Trunks & SuitcasesM. Haberbush | A Home Product (Believed to be Herckert & Meisel) Sole leather trunks, 30 Center Square in Lancaster, PAThanks, Neil! |
| Hadley & Farmers | Trunk Makers, NY, NY, est. 1850 |
| Haines, George | Pittsburgh, est. 1904Friendly website visitor Bob Lloyd writes:I have a flat top trunk that has a metal tag and a paper tag that says Geo.S. Haines Co. Pittsburgh established 1874 (note: Maybe this was George Sr, then the 1904 date was Junior – just a guess) |
| Hamilton, Alexander | trunk-maker 348 N Front StreetShown in 1825 Philadelphia City Directory(Special thanks to Matt Ainslie for providing info on makers from Philadelphia) |
| Harband Brothers(or Julius Harband) | According to the 1903 San Francisco business directory, the company was by then called Harband Brothers and was manufacturing trunks at 3253 Folsom St in San FranciscoThanks to Robert Arnold for sending this one along. |
| Hartmann Co. | Still in business today. Established in 1877. Now based in Tennessee. Visit their website |
| Haskell Brothers | Chicago, sole leather trunks and standard travel trunks.See some old ads here. |
| Hathaway, Thomas | Broad Street, Boston |
| Hawthorn & Sons | Makers, Walnut Street, Philadelphia |
| Hazelton, Isaiah | trunk m�r, George Street above 11th Street (listed as such but in Bank Street in 1823 dir.)Shown in 1825 Philadelphia City Directory |
| Headley & Farmer | Had a store or shop on Astor Place in New York City, started in 1842 Often uses brass tags on top of their trunks. Made cabin trunks and other styles |
| Herckert & Meisel Trunk Co. | 910 Washington Avenue, St. Louis, also in CaliforniaMay 20, 1929 |
| Hercules Trunks | Made by Standard Fiber Co in the early 1900s |
| Hibbard, W. R. & Co. | Manufacturers of Ladies Satchels, and Dealers in Leather Bagsand First Class Travelling Requisites345 and 346 Notre Dame Street, MontrealThanks to Shelley for reminding us to add old man Hibbard to the list |
| Hickman | Plain label with this name – maker or reseller? No idea |
| Hill, James R. | 153 Main Street, Concord, NH |
| Hirschfelder and Meaney | 36 Battery Street, San Francisco”Guaranteed Unbreakable” |
| Hodge, Levi W. | Nashua, NH”Saddles, Trunks, Harnesses Made and Repaired” |
| Hovey, A J | “Hats, Robes, & Trunks”Lyons, NY |
| Hoyes, George S. | 44 and 46 Union Square East, New York CityThanks to David Byers up in Ontario for sending this one in |
| Hughes, JR & Co. | Showroom at 40 N. High Street, Columbus, OHPatented 1897 Brass oval nameplate, jar holders in trunk |
| Hugo, Jacobi | Dresden, GermanyArrowhead-shaped handles |
| Hulbert BrothersHunnington, A T | Trunks & BagsRepairing a Specialty – also (thanks, Jean!) Fine trunks, suitcases and bags our specialty Norwich, Chenango County, NY |
| Hutchinson & Hawes | Harness makers, Merrimack Street, Lowell, Mass. Have no idea of the date, but paperwork inside (scraps of old receipts, etc.) are dated anywhere from 1832 to late 1800s.Kay Soldier, Historian/Curator, Windham, Maine Historical Society (Thanks, Kay!) |
| Independent Trunk & Bag Co | Makes of the “Dependo” trunk – wardrobe stylePetersburg, VA – perhaps related to Seward in the same town |
| Indestructo Trunk Co. | Patent dates 1922-1925Mishawaka, IN (National Veneer Products Co)Most of their trunks were numbered, but nobody can find the registration list |
| Innovation Trunk Co. | Wardrobe style trunks from the early 1900s, with ‘bulges’ on top and side to avoid stacking. Logo – INNOVATION |
| Inshured | Wardrobe-style trunk (thanks to Tim Raglin for this one) |
| Jackaberry Trunk Co. | Cleveland, OH |
| James – Dunn Box Co. | Newark, NJ |
| Johns, R.H. | Galveston, TX trunk factory |
| Karri-Keen Co. | Sioux City, IAMade crates, boxes, trunks, cases under many contracts |
| Kaufman & Strauss | 75th and Duane St, New YorkTo tell you the truth we believe this company was in the business of printing colorful lithographs and labels -we don’t believe they made trunks at all. Everything we’ve found on these two guys suggests they were printers. Darn it. |
| Kelley, RobertKelley, Thomas | trunkma�r 57 S Front Street shoe & trunk sto[re], 70 High Street. Both shown in 1825 Philadelphia City Directory |
| Kellogg & Clark, Makers | 13 Court Street, BostonEstablished 1836, Makers of fine cases, trunks, and militaria |
| Kleler’s Trunk & Bag Co. | Wardrobe trunks, Pennsylvania |
| KneessiK. Kneessi’s Sons | Kaspar Kneessi and his sons made trunks, luggage, saddles, etc – anything in leather from the 1860s up til the late 1920’s. From the 1900s on, they did retail other vendors products as well but they always made their own stuff. Based in Wash., DC Contact the grandson of the founder by e-mailAdditional information available here |
| Knobel Bothers | Superbilt Trunks (wardrobes) made from vulcanized fibre |
| Krupp, JF | Peoria, IL |
| Kuntzendorf, C. | Chicago |
| Lang, DC & JH | WHOLESALE MANUFACTURERS OFTRUNKS, TRAVELING BAGS, ETC.519 Main Street, FOND DU LAC, WIS.Thanks to Mike Gerstbauer for sending this one in |
| Lange, Ernst | German trunks with ash runners |
| Langmuir | A prolific trunk maker with some operations in NJ but based in Canada. Frank Langmuir held a few patents for the company’s own design of trunk hardware pieces. |
| Lansing Wheelbarrow Co | Slight dome trunksMr. Sparrow, President, A.C. Stebbins, Secretary and Gen. Mgr. |
| Laub Brothers | Baggage Makers, Louisville, KY, wardrobe trunks1867 on handle |
| Leatheroid Manufacturing Co | Locations in Philadelphia, New York City, and Kennebunk, MainePatents begin in 1892 |
| S. Levy Co | “S. Levy Trunks and Satchels, Memphis, Tenn. established 1845″Thanks to Henry Roye, PE, for sending this one in. |
| Libbey, Isaac | Rochester, New Hampshire “Near the fairgrounds” |
| Liebermann Trunk Co. | Leather goods, trunks. Special thanks to Ken Roubal for the following info:The company was originally in Saginaw but the owners moved to Lansing in 1931. Here is a link to an old article about the owners and their business |
| Likly, Henry | Rochester, NY, est. 1844. Most early trunks were black on the outside |
| Likly, McDonald & Rockett | Trunk Manufacturers, 122, 124 & 126 Superior St., Cleveland, OhioStill in business:Likly-Rockett Luggage Co. Phone Number : (419) 522-5312 39 N Mulberry St Mansfield, OH 44902 |
| Lorenz, William | Label says “Maker” and not much elseMinneapolis |
| Lowell Trunk Co. | Lowell, MA “Established 1881, P. F. Devine, Prop.” |
| Los Angeles Trunk Co. | “Union Made” |
| Luce Trunk Co | The “Stateroom” model, with many numbers stamped on it Luce was located at 722 main St in Kansas City, MO (and we know that thanks to Jan Becker – thanks, Jan!) |
| Lutz & Co. | “Trunks Made with Stacking Trays” |
| Maas & Co. | Thanks to Susan Traversy for sending this one in:We have a doll size dometop / camelback trunk withn the label of E.MAAS manufacturer and dealer in Trunks and Bags Ladie’s Worsted Bags and Shawl Straps Made To Order A fine line of Pocket Books & Umbrellas on Hand All Kinds Of Repairing Neatly And Properly Done 191 TREMONT STREET Corner Boylston Street BOSTON. There is a leafy scroll border typical of the 1850s to 1880s. It has a fitted interior with wall paper and a green painted canvas cover with wood slats. |
| MacKenny, G. E., Manufacturer | Chattanooga, TN |
| Mahlman, Charles | “Trunks, Satchels, & Traveling Bags” 32 Pike Street, Covington, KY |
| Mahlon, Philip | trunk maker, 86 Plum Street Shown in 1825 Philadelphia City Directory |
| Maidrite Trunk Co | Wardrobe trunks, some with production ID numbers |
| Maier, Martin & Co | 55 Monroe Ave, Detroit Established 1865Later moved to 102 Woodward Avenue”Full Line of Sample Trunks” |
| Malm, C.A., & Co. | Established in 1900, San Francisco |
| March, Nathaniel | “Producing Trunks, saddles, parade gear, hats, and harnesses of all types, since 1809 in downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire” |
| Marhoff, H.H. | Omaha, NE, 1880s. Thanks to John Oudyn for this link:Marhoff |
| Marshall Field | This retailer may have produced their own trunks, but it is widely believed that they contracted them out. Some Marshall Field trunks are fitted with tags from Hartmann, OshKosh, Langmuir, and others.Barb sent us en e-mail to let us know that her Marshall Field trunk has a Henry Likly label on it. Thanks, Barb! |
| Martins, A. G. | A store in Para, Brasil, where trunks made in the USA were sold (A Mala Americana!).Thanks to Barb Ballard for this discovery! |
| Maud, William H. | Established 1850, Salem, Massachusetts”Hide-covered trunks of the highest quality and craftmanship” |
| McBrine, L. Co, Ltd. | Kitchner, CanadaLock is stamped “EA Mahon, Montreal” |
| McCabe-Bierman Wagon | This company became McCabe Powers Carriage/Body Company.Full history available here: |
| McCarthy, G.W | “Trunk & Bag Manufacturer, Latest Novelties, Repairing Neatly Done”313-315 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY |
| McDonald | No. 44 School Street, Boston MA (mid 1800s)Thanks, Scott! |
| McGee, John | “Manufacturer of Trunks, Ladies Satchells, etc.”108 No. Howard Street, BaltimoreWas either bought by Franklin Williams or vice-versa – the two companies used the same address. |
| McKeever, Thomas | “Trunk Maker 1144 Broadway Near 26th St. New YorkLadies’&Gent’s trunks, traveling bags, satchels &c.Repairing done and covers made to order” Thanks to Kristi D. for sending this one in |
| McLeod | Montreal – made trunks under several different names, including McLeod-Hawthorne and McLeod-Shotton, and finally just plain old McLeod. |
| McLean, Daniel & Son | Nova Scotia”Makers of all types of leather goods” |
| McNamara, J.H. Trunk Co. | Chicago Metal tag on lid, paper label inside |
| McReeney & Co. | 34th Street and 5th AvenueRetailer of wardrobe trunks – we don’t believe they actually made their own trunks |
| Meek, A. E. | “Located in the center of Denver” |
| Meisel | St Louis, made wardrobe trunks in the 1920s and 30s |
| Mendel Trunx | Mendel made trunks with several partners, including Mendel-Drucker, Hartmann, and others. Famous for his wardrobe ‘Trunx’ |
| Meyering Trunk Co. | Chicago – may have made trunks for Sears |
| Minson, F.B. | Yorktown, VA “FB Minson, Maker” |
| Miller, R. L. | Trunk Factory – Saginaw, Michigan (always had many compartments |
| Molloy, George | Manufacturer and Seller of Trunk of All Types |
| Monitor Auto Trunk Co | New York (picture of the ship Monitor on label) |
| Monson, John | Fargo, NDSent in by helpful website visitor Marie B. Thanks! |
| Moore, J. Co | Worcester, MA |
| Morrison, L.E. and Co. | Beehive Trunk Co (brass tag) Thanks very much to A. Klinker for finding this info: It was L. E. Morrison’s conviction that citizens of every town, like Indianapolis, needed protection from the elements. To encourage this, Morrison sold them with rain coats, rubber boots and shoes. In 1877 he purchased his stock of merchandise in Boston, where he had received his training and experience at the American Rubber Company, and founded his own rubber company in Indianapolis at age 23. Morrison first established his business on the edge of the shopping district at the Bates House, on the corner of Illinois and Washington Street–known today as Claypool Courts. His rent was $60.00 a month. He could have rented a space where the L.S. Ayres store was eventually built for $100.00 a month, however, he thought he would save some money at Bates House. He soon discovered he needed to be closer to the center of town. In 1897 he moved to 36 West Washington Street. He was there for 27 years until he moved to 27 West Washington street. In 1925 he opened a branch on 18 North Pennsylvania Street. In 1890 he began to add leather goods to his shop–it soon became the shop’s specialty. At the turn of the century he perceived a change occurring in buying patterns. Customers were beginning to demand more luxury items then practical items. For instance, travel became more common. Consequently, the need for luggage and trunks increased. To accommodate this need Morrison stocked his store with an assortment of leather goods, luggage, and trunks. Sometime in the 1920s he discontinued his line of rubber items. Future generations carried on the business, which in1955 was still going strong. |
| Mortimer, George & Co | New York – Label states:”Sample Trunks, Bags, Cases and Leather Goods for Clothiers, Jewellers, Undertakers, and Hardware Dealers”Thanks to Gordon Hoseason for sending this one in! |
| Moyle’s Trunks & Travelling Bags | Savanah, GA |
| Multnomah Co | “Man-Proof” wardrobe trunks, Portland, OR |
| Murphy’s Trunks, Cases, & Bags | “The Best Baggage Built” Always Guaranteed, St LouisA little more information is available here |
| Musgat, John | Trunks, Satchels, and HarnessesFon Du Lac, WI years of operation 1860 – 1889 |
| Nash | The label inside the lid says: �From Nash�s Trunk Factory, Trunks, Suit Cases and Bags, All Prices. 419 Jackson St. Sioux City, IA�Thanks to Katrin Deeg for sending this one in. |
| National Veneer Products Co | Mishawaka, IN Makers of Indestructo Trunks from 1903 to 1925Most of their trunks were numbered, but nobody can find the registration list |
| National Trunk & Bag Co. | Newark NJ. Label also states “NONBREAKABLE”. Appears to be 1920’s – 30’s era, black metal exterior with leather cross-straps and brass corners. Sent in by Steve Johnson. Thanks very much, Steve.See also Nonbreakable Trunk Co below |
| Neat, Nathan | Washington Street, BostonEstablished 1825, disappeared about 1885. Many of their trunks were black or red. |
| Neverbreak Trunk Co | One of many name brands made and sold by GoldsmithNewark, NJ |
| WH Newton & SonProfessional Trunks | Thanks to Keith Allison for sending this one in:I was looking on your list and did not see Newton Armored Trunks. I have one. Address was Newton and Son 80 ELM ST Cortland, NY and laterW.H. Newton and Son Professional Trunks 121 Elm St Cortland, NY. Thanks, Keith Allison! |
| New England Trunk Co | Makers of MaidRite trunks in the 1920s and 1930s |
| DurobiltBy New Jersey Trunk Co. | Wardrobe trunks, 1920s or soNewark, NJ Thanks to Sommer for sending this one in! |
| Nonbreakable Trunk Co. | “My grandfather started a trunk and luggage manufacturing business Nonbreakable Trunks and Luggage after coming from Russia after the turn of the century. It existed in Manhattan and then in the Bronx until the 70’s” Eileen Lichtenthal Thanks very much for this information, Eileen |
| Nonrinkle Trunk Mfg Co. | (Sent in by Georgia Rodriguez, one of our favorite customers)Colorado City, CO Looks like a wall trunk |
| Oklahoma Trunk Mfg Co | Tulsa, OK from the 1920s we believe |
| Omaha Trunk Factory | Omaha, Nebraska Hinges were horseshoe shaped, tin plate on lid |
| Orenstein Trunk Co | Deluxe BestBilt Model Newark, NJ |
| OshKosh Trunk Co | Huge manufacturer of trunks and suitcases in the early and mid 1900s. Had a product line of over 2,000 items. Went out of business for good in 1974Read more here |
| Overing, John | trunk maker, corner of N. Juniper Street and Lambert StreetShown in 1825 Philadelphia City Directory |
| Overland Trunk Co | Maker of wardrobe trunks in New York City 1920s |
“Trunks That Wear, Everywhere” and is yellow | |
someplace | |
Mass most have rounded tops | |
Racine, WI | |
“Tack Boxes and Trunks” | |
F. & Son | by Parkhurst Bangor, Maine ( we have |
24 Shippen Street Shown in 1825 (Special thanks to Matt | |
bags, dress suit cases and fine leather goods 689 Broad St. Newark. NJ (thanks to Deborah Shields | |
& Bag | |
Co | |
& Bag | to be a subsidiary of Seward |
Factory | to Wards for a few years under contract |
Co | several years, late 1800s. They used many swastikas as decoration, but keep in mind that this |
Co. | |
Co | made in Dallas, TX |
Co, Walpole, Massachusetts (thanks to Christian for | |
Saddler, Harness Maker Rockaway, NJ (thanks, Angie, for sending | |
717-8th Ave. Cor. 45th St. (thanks to Quinten R. for | |
Made, Repaired and Sold” | |
trunks, canvas covering | |
Goldsmith | to make sturdy trunks in the 1910s-1940s. Some military footlockers |
Maine Wide | |
offering repair of trunks | |
Reiger made trunks in the 1870s. His name was J.H. Rieger, harness, saddles, trunks Thanks, TJ! | |
Leather Co., Rockford, IL | |
Genuine tin-covered dome tops | |
Petersburg, VA (somehow related to Sewards?) | |
Romadka Ready Access Trunks, some patents in 1904 | |
of cedar chests. Thanks to Christine Shugarman | |
Beauty trunks, Los Angeles, CA | |
caps, belts, etc. 7 Tremont Street, Boston mid 1800s | |
patent dates of March 12, 1889 and May 2, 1892 | |
Travel the Globe” early 1900s | |
have an old letter that’s dated 1881, so Runcie goes back at least that far. | |
Bag | and Strength’ Philadelphia |
Goods, Boston, early 1900s automotive trunks | |
early 1900s, wardrobe trunks. Toronto | |
514 East Houston Street. New Phone 1294 Professional trunks, all | |
Co | |
Co | NY |
manners of trunks repaired or constructed to customer specifications | |
suit the tradesman | |
on their label. Third Avenue – probably Thanks to Andy M for sending | |
suit the tradesman | |
trunks, based in Wisconsin – changed name to Eagle | |
Union Square, NY Ladies and Gents Traveling Trunks & European Dress Trunks | |
SCHUSSLER (Sp?), worked for TAYLOR for 25 years and continued under his own name when Taylor closed. My father-in-law was a Circus | |
than just about any other company, based in Racine, WI, patent dates starting in the 1880s. Established 1861. Had a salesroom at 240 Adams Street in Chicago. | |
front edges on many of them. | |
Co | Secor a run for the money in terms of the sheer number of trunks made, Seward would be it. Huge factory in Petersburg, VA. Still in business today – check the footlockers at your local WalMart. |
trunk makers, Main St., Hartford,CT Also military equipments of all kinds. This as the label reads. Thanks to Dewey for sending | |
Maker of automotive trunks to fit on Model A Fords, among other types of trunks and cases. | |
Boston. “Saddles, bridles, harnesses, trunks, and caps as cheap as can be purchased in Boston.” Started around 1804 | |
Street, Waco, TX | |
Maymon for sending this info) est. in 1890, NewYork, USA Label says: THIS TRUNK | |
Fiber” | |
Carriage Trimmer, Factory Street, between First and Second Streets. This establishment was started in 1878 by Brendt & Spahr, which partnership dissolved in February 1883, Mr. Spahr ws a native of Pennsylvania, where he was born in 1843. He carried a full line of ready-made work in light and heavy harness, collars, halters, whips, blankets, trunks, harness oils, nets, etc. Thanks to TJ Bynum for sending this one in and to the Canal-Dover, OH Historical Society. | |
Co. | |
Dresser, theatrical, and commercial trunks Best known for their dresser | |
Chest Co, From Kathleen: Please | |
and 30s | |
Stewart & Munt | boxes, and traveling bags. 6 North Street, Belfast Petersburg, VA |
and 30s | |
boxes, and traveling bags. 6 North Street, Belfast Petersburg, VA | |
1881 Catalog. Trunks & Valises, 837 & 839 S. Fifth Street, St. Louis, Mo. Large variety of fancy leather Thanks to marvin of ThisOldTrunk.Com | |
& Bag Co, maker of wardrobe trunks in the 1920s | |
Maker of high-end trunks, types of trunk parts that “Makers of the Celebrated 130 West Madison Street, (see Schussler above for | |
– not sure) – Taylor Trunk Co, Louisville, KY and New York 111285 | |
Cleveland 1861 – 1875 | |
Co. | traveling trunks – maker of oak boxes for food service |
S. | Washington, DC |
Virginia (made wardrobe trunks in early 1900s) | |
Co, Ltd. | trunks, made in Canada |
Tronick MacKenzie | sold through Sears (?) and many styles of fine trunks, tool boxes, tackle boxes, etc. A very cool website with |
Son | 1894 |
Workers International Union | 1895 Factory #51 |
a breass tag on top | |
Union,maker of wardrobe trunks in the early 1900s | |
Trunk Co | trunks, low cost, plants in Chicago and Mass. |
and tool boxes, very heavy duty, still in business as Nesci | |
of Trunks” | |
& Bag | of the Dreadnaught Trunk line 1910-1940 |
Cos | Antonio, TX Thanks to Andy M for sending |
some trunks and a handbag or two. OK, just kidding – an amazing | |
Rusche | in Trunks, Valises, Carpet Bags Cincinatti Thanks |
just sold trunks made by others from his shop in the Big Apple. | |
Sons | mid 1800s – found one dated 1870 |
just sold trunks made by others from his shop in the Big Apple. | |
– tag found on a Leatheroid trunk by website visitor DeborSoile | |
C. | with ornate fittings |
Factory | many alligator-pattern trunks for the Sears catalog |
Luggage Co | |
New York | |
Haven, CT (retailer only?) | |
Co | wardrobe trunks around 1916 Also, as sent in by Jim “Western Grip & Trunk |
in several locations. Ran a store inside the Empire State Building for many years. Made the transition from trunks to suitcases when America started traveling by plane. | |
& Bag, 1917, Nashville, TN | |
& Bag Co | of the “Cedarobe” trunk |
& Co | Los Angeles. Telephone Main 203 “Sample Trunks & Cases |
Co | Metal oval tag on top of trunk Sent in by Merle – thanks! |
operated from 1902 to 1989 in downtown Dallas, TX Thanks, Geneva, for sending | |
& Co | No 106 North Howard Street, |
Boston | |
& Co | No 106 North Howard Street, |
Boston | |
Patent numbers from US & Canada also 42 Madison, Chicago. | |
GAR supplies, horse equipment for let, Worsted bags & shawls a specialty. Three known locations in Here | |
W. | |
Thanks to Jim Wood for sending this one in!
| |
steamers, wall trunks |
Trunk Advertisements, Postcards, Labels, etc.
 | These old wardrobe trunks were made by Autorobe. These were designed just for trips by auto – sized correctly to fit in your trunk. The car’s trunk I mean. Your trunk in the car trunk. Got it? Confusing, but it all makes sense when you try to drive a trunk, or …forget it. These were made in Virginia beginning in |
Belber made loads of suitcases and wardrobe trunks, starting before the turn of the last century. Their wardrobe trunks were very well made. They even marketed a line of collapsible hangers, made of rope as shown in the ad on the right. For more on Belber click here. |   |
 | & Co. Early to mid-1800s, harness maker who made trunks as a sideline. |
 | Apparently this guy made trunks in New Bedford, Mass. We’ve only seen his advertising card, never have been able to find a trunk with his label on it. |
 | Wall trunks were made by several companies, most famous of which was the M.M. Secors line. Duguid Brothers were less well known, and their trunks sold more to the middle class of travelers. Not steerage, not sunny topside, right smack amidships. Handy for pushing against the wall in a small room. |
or H.G. FABER AND SONS Made in Utica, New York, starting in 1890. They made trunks from several varieties of wood, including mahogany, teak, pine, oak, birch, and ash. Maybe others that we haven’t seen yet. Usually has a brass tag on the outside, near the lock. More tags and labels are posted here. |   |
CO. Find one of these old Florida Trunks and you’ve got a keeper on your hands. Many of them were covered in real alligator skin, straight from right about where the Miami Dolphins play now. They advertised by sending out these postcards all over the east coast. We believe they operated from about 1925 until around 1948. |  |
 …  … | A very popular name in trunks, bags, traveling cases and the like. Still in business today. Most of these ads shown here are from the 1920s. We’re not experts on Hartmanns. The people who really know Hartmann stuff know it inside and out. Who are they? Darned if we know. Hartmann is still in business, and you |
Old Homer and his folks made wall trunks and dresser trunks out in Toledo, Ohio. Dresser trunks open up as shown in the old ad here. Drawers slide out, compartments open. Very handy. These trunks are a bit rare. Started in 1904 or so. |  |
 | Yes, these trunks were very hard to break or damage. Of course, they looked awful, but they lasted. Responding to a more thrifty America, Indestructo competed with Neverbreak, Nevermar, Nevercrack, Travel-Well, and a few others to make trunks that had no appeal but would last forever. 1920s. Don’t spend too much for these. |
CO. My old pal Hank made some wonderful trunks in his day, which was back in the mid-1800s. Started around 1840. Based in Rochester, NY, Likly trunks were known for their good looks and functional elements. They made wardrobe trunks, overnite bags, valises, standard box trunks, and even some hatboxes. Look for the original brass tag, as shown.  |  … |
Operating in San Francisco starting back in 1868 – still in business today as Malm Luggage. Visit them by clicking here. |   |
 | CO. Before they were known for their department stores, Marshall Field made a lot of trunks. Mostly all standard box trunks, a little short in snappy features, but they worked and lasted well. Covered trays were standard issue. Started late 1800s, made trunks up until the 1940s, as near as we can tell. |
Secor made the Champion Wall Trunk, which was a good seller for the company, along with many other styles. Probably responsible for the manufacture of millions of trunks. Based in Racine, Wisconsin. Started business in 1862, patented wall trunks in 1894, 1895, and 1897. Many of his wall trunks had a ‘hip-roof’ style, like the barns you’d see if you were out there in Wisconsin. Maybe he was inspired. Matej Zika (1843-1911) of |   |
  | CO. Smack in the middle of Boston there was a two-block area where trunks were being made by several different shops – it was a heated competition. Neat competed with Burr and many others, vying for market share. Most of Nate’s trunks were black – achieved with a thick, soupy aniline dye. He had high employee turn-over. Started business, as near as we’ve been able to tell, around 1822. We think he closed up in 1847 or so. |
Two factories, one in Madison, the other in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Started business in 1912, and stuck it out for many years. They made suitcases, wardrobes, and smaller bags. Built to last, and very attractive. If you find one of these it’s usually in very good condition.   |   |
 | P&S had this unique yellow lithograph inside each of their trunks. It says “Trunks that Wear Everywhere” and their trunks usually are showing some wear just about everywhere, but we don’t think they meant it that way. Late 1800s to early 1900s. |
 | & Bag From Fremont Street right in downtown Portland, Maine, operating from about 1800 until who knows when. This label was a bit garish, wouldn’t you say? If you’ve seen the picture on our home page (the trunk with the pumpkins behind it), that trunk was a Reynolds. |
Trunks, bags, valises, military and fire caps, belts, etc. Boston-based, operating in the mid 1800s. Roulstone took over as successor to Robert Burr on Tremont Street in Boston. |  |
 |  SEWARD TRUNK AND BAG CO. Claiming to be the largest baggage co. in the world, Seward was based in Petersburg, VA. Postcard shows the factory. Price list above from 1904 shows trunk prices averaging around $2.00. Middle-class trunks, nothing too elaborate. Still in business today; their footlockers may be purchased at large stores such as WalMart and others. |
Producing highly expensive bags, purses, and traveling cases (including trunks) from Paris and London, old Louie really made a name for himself. These are sort of the big money trunks in this game. Some are worth tens of thousands of $, and even some very beat up Vuittons sell for around $1,000. There are many experts on Vuittons, but we are not one of them. We learn a little more every time one of them shows up in the shop. Vuitton is still in business; they have a website that provides some history of the company.  |    |
Producers of fine wardrobe trunks and smaller bags that looked like trunk/suitcase hybrids. 1930s. |   |
  | The Trunk with Drawers Winship was one of the very first makers |
