Trunk Types

Flat-Topped:
Pretty self-explanatory, these trunks had (mostly) flat tops
and were primarily used for travel, as they were easy to
stack and store on trains, ships and carriages. They were
made out of a mix of materials: wood, leather, canvas,
metal detailing, sometimes covered in waterproof fabric.
Dome-Topped:
Similar to the flat tops in that the name implies the shape,
these trunks had noticeably domed tops and were
therefore less used for travel purposes. They are also
referred to as round top, camel, barrel and humpback
trunks, and are frequently made of embossed tin.
Slatted Trunks:
These are beautiful trunks as they were composed of thin,
wooden slats, one placed next to the other. They made for
very sturdy construction and were an example of elegant
craftsmanship.

Jenny Lind:
This trunk became popular in the 1850s and 60s when
famous Swedish singer, Jenny Lind, toured in the U.S. for
two years, taking with her everywhere a very particular
type of trunk. Looking at it from the side, it resembles an
“8” (or a loaf of bread) because it curves inward in the
middle, where it latches.
Travel/Steamer Trunks:
Mostly flat tops, these trunks were made and designed for
traveling purposes and being places in snug spaces. To use,
you stand the trunk up on its end and open it to reveal
separated compartments on each side.

Wall Trunks:
These trunks, while very similar-looking to other types,
were distinctive in their hinge mechanisms and the
manner in which they opened and closed. They were
designated for small spaces because, unlike the standard
trunk, you could push these flush up against the wall and
open the top without having to leave several inches of
space for the open top lid.
Saratoga:
Saratoga trunks are named after Saratoga, NY, a very
popular vacation spot for the wealthy in the 1800s.
Definitely one of the fancier varieties, since they mirrored
the affluence and wealth of their owners, Saratogas were
round topped (how catalogues referred to dome-topped
trunks), made of leather, canvas or metal, and were
usually decked out with decorative hardware.
Trunk Types
Sea Chest

Foot Locker

Craftsman Sea Trunk