When is a trunk not a trunk?

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When it's a Carrier Deluxe. Then the trunk becomes a pickup box, a bathtub or even a coffin. A neighboring vendor at last week's gigantic AACA Eastern Division Fall Meet at Hershey, Pennsylvania, offered this unassuming auto trunk. A second glance, however, shows that it opens at the middle, not at the top or side. When the clasp is released, each end section swivels outward, allowing the trunk to be top-loaded, then closed again. Alternatively, the end sections can be swiveled completely downward, forming a large open vessel twice the length (or width) of the trunk when closed, ostensibly doubling its capacity. The concept seems clever, but poses a few questions. What supports the extended ends when it's open? The trunk rack would have to be twice as wide, and would have to be mounted clear of the rear fenders. And what do you do when it rains? A canvas cover of some sort would be needed. Did the Carrier Deluxe come with a cover, one wonders?

It bears the label of the Durkee-Atwood Company of Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. Durkee-Atwood apparently manufactured or distributed a considerable line of auto supplies and accessories, like vee-belts and tire tube repair kits - and trunks. The company appears to be out of business, for its building, at 215 NE 7th Street in Minneapolis currently houses Durkee-Atwood Lofts, offering "very economical converted living space". Does anyone have experience with a Durkee-Atwood Carrier Deluxe? If so, how well did it work? This example certainly had appeal, as it found a new owner by Thursday afternoon.

(Text and pictures by Kit Foster)
       

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