Description

This vintage wooden banana crate was produced for Bredehoft & Boll, Inc. of Danville, Illinois, a company active in the wholesale produce trade during the early to mid-20th century. The crate is stenciled with the original black and green lettering reading “Bredehoft & Boll, Inc., Danville, Ill.” along with “Banana Box – Return to Warehouse Promptly,” and features a stylized banana graphic on the front panel. The graphics remain legible and retain strong visual appeal despite surface wear.

The crate is constructed of solid wood panels reinforced with metal corner brackets and edge banding. It retains its original bent metal wire handles on each end, secured with riveted steel plates. The interior shows expected wear from use, including scuffing and nail impressions consistent with commercial packing and transport. A maker’s mark reading “Woodsteel Nesting Box, Made by Chicago Mill & Lumber Company, Chicago, Ill., U.S.A.” is visible, further supporting its period manufacture.

Chicago Mill & Lumber Company supplied crates and packing boxes to agricultural and commercial distributors throughout the Midwest and South, particularly from the 1920s through the 1940s. The combination of stenciling style, materials, and construction suggests this crate dates to approximately the 1920s–1930s, though later use into the mid-20th century is possible.

The crate measures approximately 34 ¼ inches long, 15 ¾ inches wide, and 12 inches tall. Overall condition is consistent with age and use, with visible wear, surface scratches, oxidation to the metal hardware, and areas of discoloration to the wood. This piece works well as a display item, storage solution, or decorative accent and retains strong authenticity as an original commercial produce crate rather than a reproduction.

Condition

Please note all items are "as-is where-is"

Measurement

The crate measures approximately 34 ¼ inches long, 15 ¾ inches wide, and 12 inches tall.

Terms and Conditions

1. All items are sold where is, as is.

2. Once payment is completed for item(s) won, the ability to schedule a pick-up time will become available. Scheduling a pick-up time is required.

3. There will be a $20 fee assessed per item not picked up at that time that will be collected prior to bidding again at our auctions. Unlike retail, we do not have the option to store your item. If the item is larger than a standard suitcase (22" x 14" x 10"), we will charge $50 to the card on file per item to move the item.

4. Please plan accordingly as items not picked up are considered "abandoned". Do not bid if you cant pick up this day.

5. You are responsible for ensuring you collect all items at pickup.

6. Legacy uses "Popcorn" or "Extended" bidding. This means if a bid comes in at the last second, it is extended 3 minutes. This is like a live auctioneer saying, "going once" to ensure all bids are exhausted prior to closing.

7. We charge a 12% flat buyers premium on all items.

8. We charge KY State Tax with the exception of vehicles which is collected at the DMV.

9. You must bring help to pickup any items. We can recommend movers upon request. Also, please bring tools for items that require disassembly.

10. Please read our complete terms and conditions for additional details.