Turn of the Century Yale – Cornell Football Pencil Box

Presented here is a truly charming and exceedingly rare Turn of the Century Wooden Pencil Box featuring an early Yale vs. Cornell Football motif — a wonderful relic from the golden age of Ivy League athletics. Dating to the late 1800s or very early 1900s, this delightful piece captures the spirit of collegiate rivalry at a time when football was still in its rugged infancy.

Crafted from solid wood, the box features a classic hinged lid design, beautifully decorated with period lithographed artwork depicting a spirited football scene between the storied programs of Yale and Cornell. The image, still vivid and well-preserved, shows classic turn-of-the-century uniforms — complete with quilted pants, noseguards, and leather helmets — set against a whimsical backdrop of early gridiron action.

The colors remain surprisingly bold, and the wooden structure is intact and sound, exhibiting only light age-appropriate wear. Measuring just the right size for a desktop or display shelf, this box likely once belonged to a young schoolboy who followed the Ivy League battles with wide-eyed admiration.

Items like this — combining early football imagery with functional schoolhouse charm — are incredibly difficult to find, particularly in such lovely condition. A true crossover collectible, this Yale–Cornell football pencil box would make an ideal addition to any early football, Ivy League, or vintage sports memorabilia collection. A wonderful slice of athletic Americana from a bygone era. Please call directly with any questions or concerns.