TB keeps emptying trash on exit even after changing setting

I'd like to change my TB settings such that my Trash folder is not automatically emptied when I exit the program. I've gone to Tools>Account Settings>Server Settings, and removed the check mark from "Empty Trash on Exit ". Rebooted the computer, even, but I can't seem to get the setting to stick! [I put experimental emails in the trash, and they're always gone when I restart TB.]
Any suggestions as to how I might fix this?
Thanks!

 

Rebecca,

In Thunderbird, click on: Tools | Options | Advanced
Now click on the "General" tab
Scroll to the last option: Advanced Configuration
Click on: Config Editor... Tab

In about:config, enter this script in the "Filter" field:
mail.server.default.empty_trash_on_exit

Ensure the "value" is set to "false ".

Let us know if the setting was "true ".

 

The value was/is set to "false ".
And Trash is still being deleted on exit...

 

Rebecca,

Have you tried deleting the trash.msf file yet? Have you compacted your files recently, and if not, I would do that now.

Let us know if either of the above helps.

 

I compact files weekly, but did it again today, just in case. Deleted trash.msf, but trash still empties on exit from TB.
Other suggestions?

 

Try the following ...

Right click on Trash Folder
Select Properties
Click on Retention Properties TAB
Choose Don't delete any messages
OK screen view

Although rarely required when using this option, but this time close/reload TB just for grins and giggles. I use this option extensively to give dozens of mail folders unique auto-management ... I have 7 email account in my TB view.

 

Never thought to right click on the Trash Folder before!

Followed your instructions, and "Don't delete any messages" was what was already checked. Tried changing it to "Use Server defaults ", since my Server Settings have "empty trash on exit" UNchecked, but no luck with that either. Thunderbird apparently just doesn't want to save any deleted mail!

I know I can always create an "in route to trash" folder and manually move email there if all else fails, but I'm still hoping to find a way to get the program to follow its own command (i.e., NOT to empty trash on exit!).

Please keep suggesting away if anything else comes to mind - thanks!

 

When all fails, remove the account from Options|Mail Account. Then, create a new account with the same info. You can copy the old Inbox, and Sent files from the old account.

 

My apologies to all - I missed the obvious!
When clicking on Tools > Account Settings, I'd completely ignored the first screen that automatically comes up (Local Folders). I'd been going to Server Settings and un-checking the "Empty Trash on Exit" box there.
In trying to find the setting Westside mentioned, I discovered that there's also an "Empty Trash on Exit" box under Local Folders - which still had a checkmark in it! As soon as I removed that, everything started working the way it's supposed to.
Thanks for your patience and help!

 

Rebecca,
it may have happened that you fell for the Global Settings trap. In such case, mail from multiple account goes to Local Folders, in an ungodly pile.
My wife and I have a total of nine e-mail accounts. Can you imagine how difficult it would be to find anything. The first thing which I do, when I set up an account is to uncheck the Global Settings box.