The stone of this substantial trough is really unusual. Really heavy and solid, it is very pebbly and interesting.  This trough also has big iron iron staples - one in the front and two at the back.  Put in when it was made I would think.  It is difficult to see if there was a mend there in the front but must have been for the structure of the trough.  Adds to it character too.  Great size too.  A whole lot of trough for the money.