When it comes to decorating our home, it’s no secret that I’m a fan of all things vintage. I think my love for vintage decor comes from the fact that I’m an incredibly sentimental person. With a big imagination. I love pieces that have a story. Pieces that are unique and full of history. And I often find myself dreaming about what kind of life each one lived before reaching me. I appreciate that journey and find so much value in it. But my favorite pieces are those that come from people I love. Like this toolbox.
This rustic, worn-out wooden toolbox belonged to my grandpa, who used it most of his adult life. From what I know, he used this toolbox when he first started building houses in his twenties. He later moved on to farming and this toolbox remained in his barn from that point on. After he passed last year my mom, who is even more sentimental than I am, was fortunate enough to take it home. She recently gave it to me (after a little begging on my part) and I feel incredibly blessed to have it in our home.
I’m pretty sure this is the largest wooden toolbox I have ever seen, which is awesome because it fits perfectly on our seven foot farmhouse table. I have it decorated simply for winter with a few cotton stems and bit of fresh greenery from our back yard.
I love all of the markings. The dents, scratches, and all the little signs that show years of use and life. I see so much beauty in those imperfections. And I can’t help but imagine my grandpa’s hard working hands holding on to this handle as he carried it around his farm.
If my grandpa were still with us today I think he would be so happy to see his old toolbox in a place of prominence in our home. And in some small way, I feel like it’s a tribute to him. I think this will probably be our centerpiece for a long, long time.
Thanks so much for stopping by. Please feel free to pin and save for later!
Oh that touches my heart so! Yes, gramps would be so happy to see you love it and knowing his hands carried that tool box (full of tools) that were used to showcase his amazing talent makes it priceless! We are so very blessed to have such sweet memories! Love they way you are using it!
That is a wonderful way to remember your Grandfather. I’m sure you will find many ways to display it.
What a great memento of his legacy! Sweet blog post!
Sarah that was so beautifully written & such a perfect sentimental treasure!
What a treasure! And a lovely tribute to your grandfather. It looks beautiful!
So beautiful! I love things that have a story and are very meaningful! I enjoyed learning a little bit about your grandfather. I have a few things from my grandma and I think of her every time I use the kitchen utensils.
Thank you, I love sentimental pieces!
I LOVE it! You are so talented! I am happy to pin. Thanks for sharing your inspiration.
have a great week.
Thank you so much Meegan, I really appreciate that!!
Wow! This website looks just like my old one!
It’s with a entirely different subject however it has just about exactly the same page layout and design. Outstanding collection of colors!
What color paint is that on the walls of this beautiful room?
Hi Emmy! It’s Autumn Blonde by Sherwin Williams.
I love this story so much! I just bought a huge one off marketplace for $5. I’m going to paint and distress it like yours. I don’t have a story behind it. But I love that you have that story what a memory ❤️