Vintage Galvanized Metal Tub & Lid w/ Holes....Agricultural?

[MilitariaCollector]

Does anyone know what this tub may have been used for? It measures 17” wide x 12” high. The bottom has a few small “x” or cross shaped perforations that I am not sure if they are original or not (may be hard to see in the photo). The top has numerous holes, included a few slotted ones. The consistent pattern and slotted holes lead me to believe this was made like this and not modified. The person I bought this from thought this may have been used to collect oranges (was found in Florida). Any thoughts as to what it was used for or how old it may be? Any help is appreciated!

 

[Retired Sarge]

Possible vintage bait bucket or live well?

 

[ANTIQUARIAN]

I've never seen anything quite like your basket/bucket before.
I think the holes in the lid were produced at the factory though, as opposed to added later due to how evenly they've been punched.
I'll often try to determine the age of a piece, I'll then try to figure out what the original design was for at that period in time.

I'm having trouble envisioning picking oranges in a metal bucket, as the added weight and the handle design would make it difficult... hence the wicker basket.
Online I found a similar example referred to as an 'Apple Picking Basket', so who knows maybe this is an 'Orange Picking Basket'.
Dave

 

[Tony in SC]

It could have been used for storage. organic matter like vegetables or fruit will cause a metal tub/bucket to sweat and rot. I think someone bored the holes in it for ventilation?

 

[MilitariaCollector]

No idea here either, but thanks for the suggestions. I almost think the lid and tub may
not have originally came together, as the patina on the tub appears older even though the lid is a perfect fit. I definitely think that the lid was manufactured with the holes that way though, as the spacing and quality is uniform.

 

[DCMatt]

Maybe just a compost bin...

It looks like the base was used as an outdoor planter at some point.

 

[creskol]

a yard incinerator?

 

[Gambrinus]

No idea here either, but thanks for the suggestions. I almost think the lid and tub may
not have originally came together, as the patina on the tub appears older even though the lid is a perfect fit. I definitely think that the lid was manufactured with the holes that way though, as the spacing and quality is uniform.

I agree, I also would think that the handle would be made of the same type. I'm thinking that it may be part of a chicken waterer with the bottom tray part missing.
https://www.google.com/search?q=Vin...X8IjQIHUIIAl0Q_AUoAnoECCsQBA&biw=1360&bih=632

 

[Georgivs]

IDK but that lid obviously came from the factory like that. Maybe some kinds of wash bucket with a strainer lid?

 

[bradyboy]

lid looks like a strainer
lots of holes on the bottom to strain, less holes at top of lid to let air in to pot to strain
imo
brady

 

[CaptEsteban]

Kitchen compost bucket

 

[dozer dan]

I believe that’s an old orchard heater for when frost threatens the blooms. The pear orchards where I live use oil smudge pots scattered throughout the orchids but in Florida I’m guessing wood.