Small Hide Trunk by Drew

An unusual sized leather hide trunk by Drew & Sons of 33 Piccadilly London. The proportions of this trunk are similar to that of a boot trunk but much smaller. Although it has been re-lined in red ticking there is no evidence of it having had any fittings which might suggest a specific use. It is as well made as you would expect of Drew and the re-enforced hide corners and extra domed brass studs to the sides show that it was meant to offer good protection to the contents. The carrying handles are made of thick layers of hide to bear the weight and the lid is shut by 2 short belts traps.

Drew's details are stamped to the belted lock flap and the brass lock is engraved AW Foster Esq, Brockhampton Court, Fawley Sta(tion), GWR. Arthur Wellesley Foster and his American wife were given Brockampton Court as a wedding present by her father Ebenenzer D. Jordan of Boston around 1885 and they lived there for 30 years. He went on to become a Lieutenant in the Shropshire Yeomanry in April 1902 and retired as a Captain 9 years later. It is probable that he bought this trunk before he joined the Yeomanry. Drew opened premises at 33 Piccadilly in about 1887 and this date ties in with his arrival at Brockhampton Court. The trunk has the appearance of being older than its late 19th Century date.