White Clad Simmons Hardware Ice Box Value Guide

This White Clad ice box, produced by the Simmons Hardware Company of St. Louis, represents a quintessential piece of early 20th-century Americana. Originally designed for food preservation, its robust oak construction and unique swivel-top modification make it a highly sought-after functional furniture piece today.

What Is White Clad Simmons Hardware Ice Box Worth?

The typical price range for White Clad Simmons Hardware Ice Box is $200 - $250 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The quality and preservation of the oak wood grain and the original finish significantly impact the $200-$250 price range.
• The functionality and craftsmanship of the swivel-top modification, which adds modern utility as a TV stand or side table.
• The condition of the interior lining; intact porcelain or enamel is more valuable than rusted or chipped surfaces.
• Completeness of original hardware, including the brass nameplate and heavy-duty locking mechanisms.

How to Identify White Clad Simmons Hardware Ice Box?

• Look for the original 'White Clad' embossed brass nameplate typically mounted on the front of the oak cabinet.
• Verify the presence of the signature white enamel or porcelain interior lining that gave the 'White Clad' brand its name.
• Inspect the heavy brass latches and hinges which should feature the characteristic industrial style of the 1900-1930 era.
• Check for the Simmons Hardware Company branding, which confirms its origin from the historic St. Louis wholesaler.

History of White Clad Simmons Hardware Ice Box

White Clad ice boxes were a popular brand manufactured by Simmons Hardware Company, a major American hardware wholesaler founded in St. Louis, Missouri in 1874. These ice boxes were essential household items before the widespread adoption of electric refrigerators, designed to keep food cold using large blocks of ice. The term "White Clad" refers to the white enamel or porcelain lining inside, which provided a hygienic and easy-to-clean surface. Many of these sturdy oak ice boxes have been repurposed over the years into various furniture pieces, such as TV stands, bars, or side tables, due to their robust construction and nostalgic appeal.