1897 Patent New Departure Trunk by Edward Bean Accordion Top Antique Trunk

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This is an extremely rare steamer/cabin trunk. This trunk was patented in 1897 by Edward Bean (patent #593007 Nov. 2 1897), and he named it the "New Departure Trunk". While Bean may have thought his design would be a vast improvement and huge success over conventional trunks, I believe it never caught on. I believe this to be true due to the fact that, while Bean advertised this trunk a great deal, very few have come on the market. I look at hundreds of trunks every week, and I have only seen five of these (and I own two of them), over the last 10 years. No doubt the way the top works is unique and, might I add, very cool, but something a 19th century traveler was just not used to. However, today these are very desirable! This trunk features an original Duck canvas covering, hardwood slats, and one of a kind New Departure only, hardware. Fine linen lined interior with latching parasol compartment. The trunk works like this. The top is a spring loaded accordion style. There are two locks (key included), one on the left, and one on the right (there is a part on the front that "looks" like a lock, but it is just a decoration.) You unlock them and the top springs up and back a little. You then slide the top back and fold it open. You now have access to the interior. This trunk measures 32" long, 21" wide, and 13' high. This will also read more

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