Suitcase
Object number2018.12.1
Datec. 1920
OriginSpain
MediumLeather; Fabric; Metal
Credit LineGIft of Lynne Jacobson
DescriptionBlack leather valise. Rectangular base and lower half leads up to slanted walls on upper half that meet to close the suitcase. Top has metal latches and brown leather handle at center; latch beneath handle has lock, but key is not intact. Bottom corners are reinforced with second leather layer. Underside has one circular metal foot in each corner and one at center. Interior is lined with blue-green fabric with blue floral pattern; interior has two pockets on one side. DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth: 12.5 x 18.375 x 10 in. (31.8 x 46.7 x 25.4 cm)MarksUnderside has imprinted text above center "SPANISH / LEATHER".
Historical NotesDonor Lynne M. Jacobson's grandmother, Fannie Eisenfeld, used the valise in 1920 during her trip from Austria-Hungary to the United States. Eleazer “Louis” Eisenfeld (1880-1956) immigrated to the United States from Austria-Hungary in 1912. He worked as an egg candler and went into business with Irving Somerman. In 1920, Eisenfeld sent for wife, Feige “Fannie” Piltz Eisenfeld (c. 1882-1976), and their sons Hershel “Harry” and Joseph in 1920. Joseph had died in the influenza epidemic. A third child, Shifra “Sylvia” “Shiffy,” was born after the Eisenfeld family settled in Pittsburgh. They lived in half of a duplex on Adelaide Street, in the upper Hill District.
Previous owner
Feige Piltz Eisenfeld
(c. 1882 - 1976)
Related person
Eleazer Eisenfeld
(1880 - 1956)
Related person
Hershel Eisenfeld
Related person
Joseph Eisenfeld
Related person
Shifra Eisenfeld
Subjects
On View
Not on view
1941-1945
