Early 20th C.
steamer trunk, canvas was used on the outside of probably the majority of flat top trunks and occasionally on other styles. The canvas varied in thickness, quality and color. The canvas served some very good purposes. The "box" of a trunk was built first, then the canvas was added to the outside. On top of this canvas went the staves, trim and hardware. The canvas was then coated with shellac which made the trunk practically waterproof. This combination of canvas and coating protected the outside of trunks from many things other than water. It acted as a sort of cushion when other trunks or objects were smashed against it. It kept out dust and added strength to the trunk by binding it.
