Project

Project

Inspiration

As people settled into the Appalachian Mountain range, they would carve out a homestead with their own hands.  A tool chest would be used to transport and store the tools needed for survival and prosperity in their new lives. 

I have found there are three types of tool chests; a journeyman’s chest, a frame and panel chest and a country chest.  The journeyman’s chest is usually made by a professional with dovetailed corners, sliding trays and built in tool racks.  Usually the lid would be a modified raised panel which is strong enough to use as a workbench on the job site if needed.  This chest would be an example of the skilled craftsman and tout his abilities. 

A frame can panel chest would be made as the name implies.  The corners would be rabbet joints or butt joints nailed together.  This chest usually housed a sliding or removable tray.  Function usually dictated that the stiles and rails be reversed to minimize the end grain rotting due to wicking up moisture from the dirt floors.  Also, for this reason the bottom would be applied with nails. 

The most common type of tool chest in the Appalachian area is the county style.  It is constructed of boards butt jointed together and nailed.  A lid with crude hinges and handles makes it portable. 

I have designed all of these styles of chests with an added bonus.  The lid stay – rather it be chain or rope – can drop down into a recessed area and not bind on the tray.  Any of the chests can be built with three optional lids – raised panel, modified raised panel or flat panel.  These chests can be built with hand tools or machinery and intermediate skill level.  This is an example of a piece that has multiple uses today’s modern homes and shops. 

A country house needs a Country Chest with lots of compartments to store items for safe keeping.  This chest is good for storing photos and albums, journals, linens, games and lots more.   Shown is the chest made from poplar with milk paint finish but use your imagination. The Journeyman’s Chest is similar construction but has more trays.

Country Chest Dimensions:  32″L x 14.25″W x13″H

Journeyman’s Chest Dimensions: 31″L x 15.75″W x 15″H