Expert: Eileen Cronk - 4/28/2010

Question
I am in the process of refinishing a chest for my mother-in-law.  It is labeled 'Lane Colonial Lowboy "The Wadsworth"'.  The style is 02552, serial number is 253101- which I understand means it was manufactured Jan 31, 1925? Anything else I should know about it?  It is in great shape, but I am in the process of cleaning and restoring, to get rid of any dings, scratches, etc.  I don't think it is worth a ton of money- maybe around $300?

Answer
Hi Chris
Nice to hear from you.
Here is some important info about the lock on your Lane Cedar chest.
It comes from Greg Scholl here on Allexperts and we thank him for this.
"Anyone with a Lane cedar chest should contact Lane immediately with their serial number and style number, (branded into the bottom of the chest), for a free and IMPORTANT lock replacement. Lane will record you information, help you detect which lock style you have, and then send you a free replacement lock. The early locks (some several million of them), have been responsible for children being trapped inside the chests, and several deaths. Lane can also help you date your chest from these numbers. Please contact them through their website at: www.lanefurniture.com or via this link:

http://www.lanefurniture.com/customer_care/NewlockRequest.asp?LHF=

Your estimate is in the right area for this chest in good condition.
The condition is the deciding factor in value.
Not sure if you need any more help but just ask.
Regards
Eileen