What does a hope chest symbolize?

A hope chest is traditionally gifted to the oldest daughter in a family as a way to collect special items to store until she’s married. The hope chest has also been called a glory box, a dowry chest, and a bridal trousseau. However, it now represents hopes for a bright future full of love for many brides.

Are hope chests worth any money?

Online auction sites, antique shops and secondhand stores often sell Lane cedar chests — based on their age, condition or rarity — starting at $99 and as high as $700 or more for older chests. But most chests, on average, are valued between $200 and $400.

Why is a hope chest called a hope chest?

The term hope chest symbolizes hope in a marriage. Most traditional hope chests were constructed with cedar, a type of wood that naturally repels insects and fungus. Traditional cedar hope chests were also used to help protect fabrics and to give the items inside a pleasant aroma.

How much is an old cedar chest worth?

Old Lane cedar chests sell from $100 to about $700 depending on the age, condition and whether the hardware is original. Most are worth about $200 to $400. Cedar chests made before 1987 have lids that automatically latch shut when closed, which poses a suffocation risk to children.

What should I put in a hope chest?

Contents of a “hope chest” or “glory box” included typical dowry items such as clothing (especially a special dress), table linens, towels, bed linens, quilts and occasionally dishware. As a bride would typically leave home on marriage, hope chests were sometimes made with an eye to portability, albeit infrequently.

Do guys have hope chests?

While the hope chest is an age-old tradition for many countries and cultures within them, today, they still offer fresh inspiration and wonderful storage for many women and men, young and old.

How do I know if I have cedar on my chest?

Usually Lane cedar chests have serial numbers that are stamped or applied to the bottom of the chests. You can read the serial number BACKWARDS to determine the production date. For example: serial number 753150 would have been produced on .

How do you refurbish a hope chest?

A sure-fire way to restore the lovely, fragrant cedar smell back to your hope chest is by lightly sanding it with a fine-grit sandpaper. Sanding will open the pores of the wood, exposing new oils.

What is a love chest?

A hope chest, also called dowry chest, cedar chest, trousseau chest, or glory box is a piece of furniture traditionally used by unmarried young women to collect items, such as clothing and household linen, in anticipation of married life.

What does a hope chest symbolize? A hope chest is traditionally gifted to the oldest daughter in a family as a way to collect special items to store until she’s married. The hope chest has also been called a glory box, a dowry chest, and a bridal trousseau. However, it now represents hopes for a…