One of the good things about getting antique furniture like an antique wardrobe is that each piece is uniquely handcrafted. However, if you want something even more unique in your bedroom, you can get an antique wardrobe trunk.
Wardrobe trunks are also called travelling trunks, steamer trunks or flat-top trunks and were commonly used from the 18th to the 20th century.
On the outside, they look similar to other types of trunks but what makes them different is that they are made to stand on one side when opened, revealing a set of drawers, hangers and sometimes, even make-up boxes, mirrors and shoe buckles. In this way, the trunk doubles as a wardrobe closet, hence its name, and was often used for long trips aboard a train or ship.
One thing you should note is that an antique wardrobe trunk is harder to find than an antique wardrobe armoire, mainly because there were fewer made, only over a course of two centuries. In fact, the best way to find one is through an antique furniture dealer or at an auction.
Here are some of the most famous makers of antique wardrobe trunks that you should keep an eye out for, a few of which are still in existence today:
Belber – The Belber Truck & Bag Co. was established in Philadelphia in 1889, with shops put up in Chicago and New York later on. Its wardrobe trunks are made of oak and are well known for their excellent construction and the fact that they can be easily restored to their original appearance.
Hartmann – Established in 1877, Hartmann remains a leader in handcrafted quality luggage up until today, though its headquarters have been moved from Milwaukee to Lebanon, Tennessee. Hartmann antique wardrobe trunks usually have excellent locks and come in nice shades instead of plain black, with each one designed to be not just a piece of luggage but a symbol of excellence as envisioned by its founder, Joseph Hartmann.
Henry Likly – Henry Likly was a well known trunk maker in the mid 1800s, having been established in 1844 in Rochester, New York. His trunks are mostly made of basswood, making them very durable yet still light, and were also popular for their fashionable design. The authentic pieces come with a brass tag.
Louis Vuitton – Today, Louis Vuitton is one of the most recognized brands of luggages and handbags. A century ago, though, it was a leading trunk maker. In fact, Louis Vuitton was the one who introduced flat-bottom, airtight trunks, including excellent wardrobe trunks.
Oshkosh – Established in 1902, Oshkosh is one of the most popular wardrobe trunk makers. In fact, if you find an Oshkosh antique wardrobe trunk, you’ll want to hang onto it since you will usually find it in excellent condition.
Winship – The H.A. Winship trunk company is said to be one of the first wardrobe trunk makers in the US, with its pieces made of both canvas and wood with metal handles.