Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Mystery Find-What is this thing?

This is my mystery item.....
I bought this funny old box for $2.00.  I was drawn to the color.  However...it opened strangely and at first I couldn't figure it out.  You have to open it and flip the lid. It has very small finger joints.
It says Clapp and Baileys Remnants on the bottom, and I am waiting for you Tamarah to tell me what it was used for....(I know it may seem obvious, but I Googled Clapp and Bailey and all I found was they may have made lace.  I am wondering what kind of remnants ie. lace, fabric, yarn, rugs) Also if anyone knows anything about Clapp and Bailey.
The lid flips open like this.....
Postscript: Tracy from Ms Bake It told me it is from 1881 and was used to store fabric remnants.  Thanks Tracy. oh.....and it smells like 1881 inside.

21 comments:

  1. I don't know. Perhaps it is a little writing desk.

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  2. I don't know but it's cool and looks great just as your using it! Fun find and it's the best color.

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  3. That is a cute little box, I am waiting to hear what Tamarah says. You will have to share it with us when you find out Chania. xx

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  4. Okay...my best guess because is says 'remnants', but it's too little for fabric....embroidery threads???

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  5. Hmmmmm....that's a toughie but I love it, it's great and as usual you make it look awesome with your accessories.

    xo
    LeAnn

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  6. I'm intrigued by this little mistery, I have no idea what's it used for... xx

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  7. It does almost resemble the old military desks, only in miniature. Is it possible the wording was carved in later when it was re-purposed?

    Or I would guess some type of sample case.
    very cool regardless, and that color is fab.
    ..and for 2 bucks whoo Hoo

    Suzan

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  8. How unusual. I really like it though. I love containers and boxes and such.
    Brenda

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  9. I'm sure I don't know what it is, but it's lovely! And you seem to have found good use for it!

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  10. It's a box for keeping Clapp Bailey's remnants in, silly.

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  11. Hello Chania,

    It is indeed a Clapp & Baileys Remnants Shop Display Case dating back to 1881. they used it to display material, etc. Great find!

    ~ Tracy

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  12. Wow, I am in love with this desk organizer, er, antique display case. As usual, you've styled it beautifully. I have a thing for desk organizers or things that can be used as such so this really calls out to me. Great find and beautifully aged patina.

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  13. What an awesome find, love it. Take Care, Carrie

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  14. This is too pretty. I don't think it's a writing case because you can't rest on it. How about a travelling salesman's display case. Flip it open and all is revealed to the client?
    Look forward to the answer
    Sharon

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  15. Morning Chania....!

    I MISSED your post last night but am GLAD to see Tracy was able to help out....I'm NOT sure what I would have gone with to be honest.... :o) !!

    In ANY case I LOVE it & wish I'd found it....!!

    Cheers from here,
    Tamarah :o)

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  16. Wonder if that would have been the original colour? or has someone painted over the original box?

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  17. It makes a great little "secretary" though.

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  18. Oh Chania, I love your latest treasure! The colour is gorgeous and the shape and size are fabulous! Love what it was used for too, and how great does it look on your desk! Great find:) ~ Tina xx

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  19. I can't believe you bought something that is from 1881 for only $2! A great find and it's good to see if being well-used.xx

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I love to read each and every comment and are thrilled that you take the time to send one. Thank you so much. Chania