Late 19th Century French Transatlantic Steamship Trunk - Compagnie Générale Transatlantique, Le Havre to New York

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Authentic late 19th / early 20th century European transatlantic steamship trunk, originally used on the Compagnie Générale Transatlantique (French Line) … Read more Authentic late 19th / early 20th century European transatlantic steamship trunk, originally used on the Compagnie Générale Transatlantique (French Line) route between Le Havre and New York.

Constructed with canvas-covered wood panels, hand-riveted iron banding, forged iron handles, and a domed lid designed for stacking and ocean travel. The trunk retains its original green painted surface, extensive historic travel labels, and a richly worn patina consistent with late-1800s passenger baggage.

This trunk comes from my family, when my family immigrated from Montenerodomo Italy, and has remained in family possession for generations. The interior retains its original blue patterned paper lining, along with sections of Italian-language newspaper, a common period repair method and strong indicator of late 19th-century travel history. These elements have been intentionally left untouched and unaltered.

Likely dating to circa 1885–1910, this trunk was used by my great- great grandfather crossing the Atlantic during the Ellis Island era. A rare survival with intact interior paper.

Condition: Structurally solid. Wear, surface loss, oxidation, and paper deterioration consistent with age and historic use. No modern restoration . Sold as-found.

A powerful functional artifact of transatlantic travel, immigration history, and European craftsmanship. Ideal as a statement storage piece, coffee table, or collector’s item. See less