PatPitter, I too have what sounds like a very similar sewing box and it too is way over 40 yrs.old. but mine has been missing a cover for alot of those yrs. and I don't even remember when it disappeared. But I still use it for certain items. I now use a sewing basket, I found it at a GoodWill several years ago but I had to put new fabric lining it. And now it is my traveling Basket. My mother passed away this past Valentine Day, and I got her Sewing Basket to use at home for my quilting supplies while watching TV. Love them all.