As a storage item the humble little trunk has been around for hundreds of years, dating back to the 16^th century when they were termed coffers. These wooden boxes have gone through a number of different guises and have developed to become a vital form of luggage for travellers until today when they are popularly used inside the family home.

A storage trunk was used to provide someone with luggage that was large enough to store a significant proportion of their wardrobe. Given the length of time many trip took during the 1600s and onwards it stood to reason that a large trunk would be necessary.

From oak slat trunks that were reinforced with wooden slats across the body to the more modern steamer trunks with their flat tops, the antique trunks that are still available represent some of the finest quality of woodworking possible. The fact that many of these old trunks are still in very good condition today is testament to how well made they were.

During the 1800s these trunks were a huge industry and there were hundreds of trunk manufacturers who were responsible for producing trunks, suitcases and handbags to keep up with the demand. Finding an antique trunk that still contains the original makers marks can be an exciting find. Some of these trunks are extremely rare and provide us with a great link back to the past.

Even the older looking trunks that come up for sale on a regular basis may be turned into significant pieces of furniture with some careful restoration. The old locks, clasps and metal pieces that were commonly used to protect and reinforce these trunks can still be found and when they are matched to the trunk they can bring the old box back to life very effectively.

These days an antique steamer trunk placed in the lounge room will not only provide a fashionable looking coffee table to the room but will also represent some valuable storage space too. These trunks have a lot of space and can be the solution to space problems within the home. Placing the trunk out in the open is a great way to hide last season’s clothes or the comforters that are not required during the warmer months.

There are many different kinds of storage trunks for sale, both old and new. Online auctions are a great place to start with the possibility of picking up a bargain available virtually every single day. It may be a camel-backed trunk for the back bedroom or a reconditioned steamer trunk for the lounge room but no matter what its age the trunk will still provide value to the home.

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