Posted 13 years ago
MachinistC…
(2 items)
This is one I purchased on the bay for reconditioning. It`s the only one I`v ever seen. I use it around the house to stow my plumbing tools for fixing all those leaky faucets. I guess we can call it "Joe the Plumbers Tool Box"
Much too nice for plumbing tools, fishing tackle I could see.
We have three simular to the ones you have pictured,with each one for a different use.My father-in - law was a tool and die maker for 35 years or so.Yours looks in good shape,these are still being made today.
A bit of history on the company that made it.
Union Steel Chest moved from Rochester NY to LeRoy in 1932. Operation of the company began in 1893 with the manufacture of drafting tables, and later machinists tool chests and specialty cabinets. The manufacture of light formed metal tool and utility chests began in the 1920s. The parent company went into receivership in 1931 and the metal division now owned by three men formerly executives with the Rochester organization came to LeRoy. Union produced steel utility and tool chests until the late 1960s when plastic fishing tackle boxes were introduced. The wooden chests came in three styles and were carried through 1953. The cases were purchased on the outside and "trimmed" in LeRoy. The Company relocated to Chandler AZ in 1973 and closed in 1984. It is difficult to date the wooden chests and it depends on the style of drawer pulls. the man who had the information on the pulls died a few years ago, and as far as I know, did not leave his notes with the dating information...MC
Thanks for the info,looked at the leather handles on my chests,they are attached different than the one you have and each one of my chests have built in locks.Not sure if you can get into my FB wall but they are on there.Lee Sayer East Tawas Mi
Try this http://www.flickr.com/photos/49759867@N04/5350678146/in/photostream/