Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What is the history of Martinsville furniture?
1 Answer
The history of Martinsville furniture starts with the founding of the company in Martinsville, Virginia, in 1906 by Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee, a pair of former tobacco farmers. They launched their business with $30,000 in capital and began to manufacture bedroom furniture under the name American Furniture Company. In the 1920s, American Furniture Company expanded its offerings from bedroom furnishings with a range of dining room sets. By the 1950s, the company’s name had been changed to American of Martinsville, and it had gained a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship as well as a variety of furniture styles. Inspired by designers like George Nakashima and Paul László, the brand innovated with wood. Merton Gershun was one of the company's most prolific designers, and he was responsible for some of its most successful modern furniture lines using the richer, darker woods that would become emblematic of mid-century furniture. Gershun's most popular line was Dania, with its sleek walnut credenzas fitted with stylish brass accents and large drawers. Today, American of Martinsville specializes in furniture for the healthcare and hospitality industries. Find a variety of American of Martinsville furniture on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024
Related Questions
- Is American of Martinsville furniture still in business?1 Answer
- What are amphorae in history?1 Answer
- What is the history of Kartell?1 Answer
- What is the history of Wedgwood?1 Answer
- What is the history of Gucci?1 Answer
Shop for American of Martinsville Furniture on 1stDibs
Mid Century Modern American of Martinsville Dresser Gentleman's Chest MCM
By American of Martinsville
Located in Las Vegas, NV
Unique Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Credenza/Dresser
Presenting a stunning and unique American of Martinsville mid-century credenza with nine drawers, offering ample ...
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
Materials
Burl
Restored American of Martinsville 6 Drawer Chest- Pair Available
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
An exquisite example from a rare series by American of Martinsville, circa 1960. Stout, expertly made mahogany case construction restored in cream lacquer. Fabulous, chunky solid bra...
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
American of Martinsville Accord Walnut Nightstand or End Table with X’s
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Topeka, KS
Handsome nightstand or end table from American of Martinsville and Merton Gershun’s Accord line of furniture with their signature X’s and asymmetric handles. It is in wonderful resto...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Night Stands
Materials
Aluminum
Stylish Pair of American of Martinsville Walnut Nightstands Mid-Century Modern
By American of Martinsville
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Great looking pair of American of Martinsville walnut nightstands. These stylish nightstands have a great flip down door opening to reveal a nice open space with on small drawer. The...
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Night Stands
Materials
Brass
American of Martinsville Storage Unit
By American of Martinsville
Located in New York, NY
A two-piece bookcase set in a rich walnut finish, featuring a lower three-drawer platform with brass bands, complemented by an upper three-section bookcase. Manufactured by the Ameri...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases
Materials
Wood
No Reserve
Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern Walnut Highboy Dresser
By American of Martinsville
Located in Los Angeles, CA
With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for vintage designs that can seamlessly be incorpo...
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
Materials
Walnut
