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Rare Antique Beer Crate – Davenport Malting Co (1895–1907)
Original wooden railroad shipping crate from the historic Davenport Malting Company that operated in the late 1890s in Davenport before the merger of the 5 big brewing companies of the quad cities in 1908. This crate is lettered with “Rock Island Illinois” instead of “Davenport, Iowa”. Davenport Malting Company had a rock island distribution branch which was sent out via railroad and horse drawn carriage during this time.
The lid and heavy duty construction was required at the time to survive shipping via carriage or rail.
Speaking with local collectors, this is only the second known example of a Davenport Malting Co (Rock Island) as of today.
This crate was placed in a barn in 1960 in the Illinois quad cities and was just picked this week. The crate had original 1800s bottles wrapped in a 1960 newspaper and all survived. (Listing is for crate only)
Approx. Size: 21.5 x 16.5 x 11”
Background:
Davenport Malting operated 1895–1907, supplying malt and beer across the Mississippi River region. Surviving crates like this—especially with lids—are very hard to find.
Good antique shape. Normal wear and oxidation for age. Lid opens/closes properly. See all photos for details.
Perfect for Iowa / Illinois beer, brewery, or railroad memorabilia collectors!
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