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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Roos Mfg Co Cedar Chest

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Question
I was about to repair and varnish a cedar chest when I noticed the marking on the bottom and thought I should research it before altering it.  The bottom of the chest says "ROOS MFG.CO. CHICAGO." and in what looks like black crayon #452.  It is rather plain with wooden side handles, small round feet and a small piece of wood missing bottom front that I was preparing to repair.  The inside is immaculate and smells great and the finish is nice.  Would varnishing this piece be a smart idea? In reading about this company I see they started in Chicago (1916) and then moved to Forest Park (1918).  Do you think my cedar chest was made before the move to Forest Park?  

Answer
Hi Bonnie
Nice to hear from you.
Aren't these old chests lovely.
Bonnie if the chest needs a bit of fixing up to make it more pleasing to you then go ahead. Its not going to harm it.
Unfortunately I cannot tell you when this chest was made.
Kindest Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

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Eileen Cronk

Expertise

I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.

Experience

I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.

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