A GIANT CLOCHE

For 35 years in our antique travels, we have been looking for an early 1900s ballot box. The rare times we have spotted one, it was way out of our price range. In a recent discussion with a class mate that worked at our hometown court house, we found out that she had acquired several ballot boxes years ago when they became obsolete. At our recent class reunion, she brought one to give us. We were thrilled beyond belief. It was in "stored in a barn for years" condition and needed three pieces of glass replaced. Bob, of course, loves a challenge like that. This is what it looks like now.

He took it all apart, restored the original finish, and replaced the glass. It was like a giant puzzle putting it back together. It took our four hands and arms, two bungee cords, a belt, and a few well-chosen words to get the eight pieces of glass to fit back in their slots and grooves.

The top locks with three separate keys -- we assume for three different people to prevent tampering with the election process. If only our current election process was still this simple. The original printing is on the top door indicating that it came from a ballot box company in Denver.

All of the time we were working on it, I kept thinking this could be one GIANT cloche. It stands 25" high and is 17" square. The eight pieces of glass form an octogon within the square framework.

I'm sure I'll have fun thinking of things to put into my new "cloche" for the various seasons.

I always love when a decorative item also has meaning to our family. My grandfather was a popular elected official for years in the early 1900s. I like to imagine that many votes in his favor were cast in this very ballot box.

I'll be joining the following parties this week. Check these blogs out for a plethora of inspiration.

A Stroll Thru Life for the Fall Cloche Party on Tuesday

Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesday

Restore Interiors for Restored It Wednesday

The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursday

No Minimalist Here for Open House Party on Thursday

Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday

Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special