ANTIQUE NEW ENGLAND BOX CO ASHUELOT NH DOVETAIL WOOD BOX CIVIL WAR ERA AMMO?

When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.

ANTIQUE NEW ENGLAND BOX CO ASHUELOT NH DOVETAIL WOOD BOX CIVIL WAR ERA AMMO?:
$199.99

Greetings from Massachusetts Antiques!For your consideration:A RARE c1870s NEW ENGLAND BOX CO ASHUELOT NH DOVETAIL STYLE CIVIL WAR ERA WOOD BOX possible AMMUNITION BOXQuite a rare find with original stamp on interior marked \"Wooden Boxes Made By The New England Box Co. Ashuelot, N.H.\". c1860s-1890s. Complete with spectacularly crafted dovetail joints, inlaid metal handles and a pair of metal straps wrapped around each end of the exterior! Unsure as to original function but possibly Civil War or Spanish American War era ammunition box; may be a bit later than Civil War, not positive. The style and shape of the box resemble that of an old ammo box; there are also hardware marks where hinges once were showing that this was a hinged lid box. We can note four structural designs that show that this box was intended to be very durable and hold a large amount of weight. These four points are the elaborate dovetail joints at each corner, the metal built in handles and the added metal straps. The final element and harder to spot is the base is made from two pieces of wood with two long sliding dovetail joints securing them! All of these design elements point to an intention for this box to carry a heavy load. It is also entirely possible that this box was made to carry another heavy metal object or objects rather than ammunition. In my research I was unable to find much history on New England Box Co. so was unable to see if they were known for producing ammunition boxes. Definitely an item worthy of further research!In Very Good overall condition with general wear as expected from a 150 year old item. Fully functional; no rot; time cured and dried wood; light soiling as well as dings and blemishes. Remnants of red and white paint splatter can be seen. Worn edges and corners from years of use. Base shows tasteful naturally occurring split in smaller board. Handles are rusted but should clean up nicely. Great antique nail heads exposed throughout the box. Unsure as to wood but looks to be pine. Beautiful antique circular saw cut pattern can be seen throughout. Box was once veneered or finished and still has a somewhat bright and sleek finished exterior.Measures 22\" x 8 1/2\" and 5\" tall. Weighs approximately 4 lbs.Overall, a great example of a rare dovetail joint box made by New England Box Company in Ashuelot, New Hampshire. A superb piece of craftsmanship and an eye catching decorative display piece indeed!Please enjoy the photos for further item details and if you have any questions feel free to ask. This item ships Worldwide and requires PayPal payment. Fast payment ensures prompt shipping. Thank you and please enjoy our other listings!