History of the Hope Chest

Leah Meldman 06/04/2017

The hope chest has been referred to as many things, including a dowry chest, trousseau chest, and a glory box. No matter what it’s called, this tried-and-true treasure has evolved over time to remain a favorite piece of furniture.

Longstanding Tradition

The hope chest dates back centuries, revealing a rich and fascinating history. It originated at a time when marriage included the exchange of property between families. The idea of the hope chest was brought to America in the 18th century by waves of European immigrants, including the German settlers that would come to be called Pennsylvania Dutch. Amish settlers had a long tradition of simply crafted chests with ornately painted decorations.

Coming of Age Gift

These handmade chests were given to young women as a symbol of good luck in preparation for marriage. Brides-to-be filled their hope chests with handmade items deemed necessary for their anticipated union. These included treasures such as special occasion dresses, blankets, towels, and napkins. Many of these items were handmade by the potential bride as a sign of her skillfulness and readiness for marriage. The process of collecting items was a fun and practical way for young women to prepare for a new life and home of their own.

Cedar Construction

Traditionally, hope chests were constructed of cedar. This wood’s ability to repel insects and protect fabric was a natural choice. Brides would not have to worry about the buildup of fungus on their precious trousseau. The protection of aromatic cedar oil perfectly preserved the bride’s treasures until it was time for her to marry.

Today, a number of hardwood species are used in the construction of hope chests including cherry, oak, and maple.

Several Styles

Traditional

Hope chests have evolved to include many different styles, but the traditional construction remains popular. The Amish Octavia Cedar Chest is a timeless option that is reminiscent of original hope chests.

Amish Octavia Cedar Chest

American Colonial

The characteristic style of Colonial American furniture looks great on hope chests. Our Amish Seat Rail Cherry Wood Fancy Front Hope Chest exemplifies this classic approach.

Amish Seat Rail Cherry Wood Fancy Front Hope Chest

Country Style

Country style hope chests are popular because of their charming carved motifs. Choose from a variety of stunning engraving options to personalize the Amish Oak Medium Flat Top Hope Chest.

Amish Oak Wood Medium Flat Top Hope Chest

Rustic

The evolution of hope chests now includes materials like log and even reclaimed items, The Amish Rustic Hickory Hope Chest is one-of-a-kind, making it an ideal gift for the special person in your life.

Amish Rustic Cabin Hickory Hope Chest

Our Amish Rustic Log Hope Chest features drawers for added storage space.

Amish Rustic Log Hope Chest

Hope Chests Today

Hope chests have been adapted over the years to keep a spot in the American home. Today, they are commonly used at the foot of the bed to store bed sheets and blankets. They have also been repurposed as children’s toy chests as a long-lasting alternative to toy bins from big box retailers.

Hope chests are still given to daughters as engagement gifts or as a memorable gift at a wedding shower. Our customer, Bridget G. from New York, was kind enough to share the below photo of a hope chest given as a gift for her daughter’s wedding shower.

Amish Maple Wood Shaker Hope Chest - Quick Ship

They can also be filled with graduation gifts like inspirational books and family photos.

Amish furniture is built to last and meant to be passed down from generation to generation just like hope chests. DutchCrafters hope chests allow you to take part in this longstanding American tradition.

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6 comments

  • Carol Visscher
    January 20, 2020 at 3:38 pm

    Does your company make plain pine caskets?
    I have seen some at funeral/viewings for Mennonite friends
    (We are not in need of one immediately)
    Thank you;
    Carol Visscher


  • Beth Rice
    January 22, 2020 at 9:23 am

    Hello Carol,

    Thank you for your question. I’m sorry, we do not sell caskets.

    Thank you for visiting Timber to Table.


  • Ms Gail E. Evans
    September 26, 2021 at 11:28 am

    Much thought has been given to the giving of “hope chests” in my family, having no knowledge of my own mother,nor her six sisters. Today my thoughts are with my six granddaughters. My feelings of
    having this meaningful piece of furniture is an important legacy for my loved ones. I have always felt a void of not having a cedar chest.
    I truly appreciate the workmanship of Amish artisans. I am interested in and hope to have a summer cabin constructed on rural land left by my parents. I have been searching for Amish contacts to achieve this lifelong goal soon. Any information you can offer will be appreciated. Thank you.


  • Beth Rice
    September 27, 2021 at 12:23 pm

    Hi Gail,
    We cannot help you with finding Amish home builders. That will depend on local builders in your area. But we can help you with Amish made cedar chests. The hope chests we offer are built in Amish country. We work with vendors located in Pennsylvania, Indiana and Ohio. You can customize our hope chests by choosing the wood and stain. All are authentic wood furniture. You can view the collection here.
    https://www.dutchcrafters.com/Amish-Hope-Chests/cat/229

    Thank you for your question and for visiting us on Timber to Table.


  • BARBARA CONWAY
    July 17, 2023 at 9:18 pm

    I STILL HAVE MY LANE CEDAR HOPE CHEST FOR 63 YEARS . MY PARENT GAVE IT TO ME WHIN I WAS 17 YEARS OLD AND GOING
    WITH MY HIGH SCOOL SWEETHEART .IT STILL SMELL LIKE CEDAR .
    WHO I MARRIED IN AUG 20 1960.THIS SUMMER WILL BE 63th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY.
    WE HAVE KNOW EACH OTHER 69 YEARS NEXT JAN 2024
    SAD TO SAY MY HUSBAND JERRY PASSED AWAY FEB 2021 AT 83 YEARS OLD AND I AM NOW 86 YEARS OLD
    MY GRANDDAUGHTER 18 YEARS OLD ASK WHAT IS A HOPE CHEST, I TOLD HER THE STORY ABOUT A HOPE CHEST .


  • May 31, 2024 at 11:26 am

    Sorry to hear about your husband. Thank you so much for sharing that with us, Barbara.


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