Old Carpenters tool chest- need info please!

Hello and Welcome!

Thank you for taking the time to view my piece and hopefully offer a bit of advice. I have this old carpenter's tool chest. I believe it would date around 1920- 1940, but that is pure speculation from a rank amateur, myself. Anyways, I would love if you would be willing to tell me the actual time period, the type of wood, possible value (if any), and any other tidbit of knowledge you may have stored in the ol' noggin. Also, what are your opinions on refinishing the trim with a dark walnut stain? Should I leave as is or would a different stain better suit the piece?

 

Looks a bit like a military foot locker but not sure that it is. They usually have more information stamped on them. Wonder what the number tag is for? Not a lot to go on as far as age is concerned. Could be as early as the 20s but could have been made any time up in to the 50s I would think.

If you want the contrast of a dark stain, go ahead and do it. I, personally, would probably just use a clear penetrating finish to bring out the natural color of the wood and enhance the remaining paint. The gouge could have some color added to help it match. Just my preference but do what suits you. This is not a fine antique so don't think you can hurt it.

 

Thanks verybrad! I am pretty certain it is an old carpenters tool chest, because on the inside you can see the rust marks of a file and wrench, ect. Anyways, I wasn't sure if carpenters went nostalgic for this kind of thing or not and maybe had some value there. I plan on turning it into a footlocker for my bed. Just wanted to get the "okay" from someone else before I alter something that is a few multiples of my own age.

 

There are collectors for this type of carpenter's chest (which this is - too long for a mechanic's/machinist's tool chest).

Here are some that sold on eBay, apparently not very valuable!!

http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_fro...lete=1&LH_Sold=1&rt=nc&_trksid=p2045573.m1684

 

That's a good use though I would find some old wood and replace the missing tray...if that would make it more useful for you.
He may have worked in a factory so perhaps that was his designated number and helped to find/know where it was when stored.