I didn't have a hope chest, but was lucky enough to get my mother's. She gave it to me, completely filled a few years before she passed on. I was amazed by what it held - beautiful linen tablecloths, hand embroidered tea-towels, a hand-crocheted table cloth made by my great-grandmother and my most treasured possession - a hand appliqued quilt top made by my grandmother. I plan to hand quilt it. My mum's hope chest is a treasure, lined with cedar which still smells wonderful after 60 years. I have it at the foot of my bed and think of her every time I see it. What a wonderful gift she gave me!!