Vintage Samsonite carries decades of stories

I paid $6.59 for practicality and a piece of history.

If each Goodwill donation could talk, imagine the stories we would hear! During a recent visit to Louisville’s Northfield location, I discovered a vintage three-piece luggage set. I immediately sensed there was something special about this find, and now the medium Samsonite suitcase will be traveling with me, collecting new stories to tell.

While in the store, I was intrigued by the set’s originality and character. After some digging, I dated the luggage back to the early 1970s, when hard-side cases were becoming common. The hue of robin’s-egg blue was distinctive, exposing the period of which this luggage was initially purchased.

The largest luggage piece was in the best condition, showing the least age. The exterior of the case was obviously in good condition, having a few blemishes that could be buffed out. The fabric, separators, and zippers were in great condition and the sturdiness of each handle was a testament to its quality. As the saying goes, “They don’t make ‘em like they used to!”

While I am unaware of my case’s previous journey, I know for certain it has a good story to tell.

Best,

A

#luggage #travel #goodwill #vintage #thrifty

our history

Goodwill Industries of Kentucky is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Louisville since 1923. Goodwill gives people up—not a handout—so they can experience the dignity and independence that comes from earning a paycheck.

 

our mission

We help people with disabilities or other disadvantages achieve and maintain employment to gain a better quality of life.

what we do

Goodwill collects and sells donated items to fund programs for Kentuckians who have disabilities or other challenges in finding and maintaining traditional employment. On-the-job training, job preparation skills, and employment counseling are just a few of Goodwill's services that benefit thousands of adults each year and strengthen families in Kentucky's communities.