1890s M.C. Lilley & Co. Wood Trunk & Antique Bowler Hat Set For Sale

Authentic Turn-of-the-Century (c. 1890-1920) M.C. Lilley & Co. Storage Chest & Antique Bowler Hat Set
This is a beautiful, turn-of-the-century (circa 1890–1920) storage chest manufactured by the renowned M.C. Lilley & Co. of Columbus, Ohio—a company famous for supplying regalia to the nation’s fraternal orders and military societies.
The chest features the original, iconic internal factory label, which remains in clean and legible condition—a rare find for an item of this vintage. We have paired this chest with a period-appropriate black bowler hat. While the hat shows authentic age-related wear, it serves as the perfect display companion for the box, creating a stunning \"gentleman’s accessory\" vignette for your home office, study, or curio cabinet.
Key Features:

• Historical Provenance: Manufactured by M.C. Lilley & Co. (Columbus, Ohio) during their \"Golden Age\" of fraternal supply (circa 1890–1920).
• Authentic Label: Original M.C. Lilley & Co. paper label on the interior lid, protected for over 100 years.
• Functional Lock: Includes a working (non-original) key that reliably latches and unlatches the chest.
• Display-Ready: Compact dimensions make this a perfect tabletop or shelf-sized accent 18\" Width x 11\" Height x 10.5\" Depth
• Hat length 12\" and internal measurement: 7.75\" x 6.25\"

Condition Report:

• The Box: Very good antique condition. The wood is rich and well-maintained. The metal hardware (including the lock with 1869/1877 patent dates) has developed a beautiful, natural patina consistent with its age.
• The Hat: Included as a decorative display piece. It shows vintage character, including fraying along the brim and age to the interior leather sweatband. Please see photos for a detailed view of the condition.

Box History: 1882 - Early 1900s

• According to historical records of the company, the name \"M.C. Lilley & Co.\" was used from 1865–1881. In 1882, after the founder passed away, the name changed to \"The M.C. Lilley & Co.\" (note the \"The\"). If your interior label includes \"The\" in the company name, it was made between 1882 and 1925.
• Given the lock patent (post-1877) and the company\'s \"Golden Age of Fraternalism\" (1870s–1910s), this box is likely from the late 1880s to the very early 1900s.

The Bowler Hat History: Late 1800s – 1920s

• \"American Manufacture\": This mark was commonly used by American hatters during the late 19th and early 20th centuries to distinguish their goods from European imports. It was a common stamping on the liner and sweatbands of quality hats made by companies like Stetson and others during that era.
• The Match: Because this box was designed to hold regalia (which included hats, swords, and uniforms), it is highly probable that the hat and box have been together for a very long time—possibly since they were new. The style and construction of the hat are entirely consistent with the late-Victorian and Edwardian eras.

Shipping:This set will be professionally packed to ensure both the box and the hat arrive in the same condition as pictured.Own a genuine piece of American craftsmanship. This set is a fantastic, ready-to-display conversation piece.
ADDITIONAL TRUNK & HAT PHOTOS: