American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
American of Martinsville is today revered as one of the finest manufacturers of mid-century modern furniture in the United States, but its beginnings were unexpectedly humble.
Well ahead of the Civil War, tobacco was a cash crop in places such as Virginia, and the plant was grown with frequency on farms in Martinsville and elsewhere. In the early 1900s, the business around tobacco was changing and the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company was expanding nationally, buying any Virginia factories in reach. Former tobacco producers Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee turned away from the business in 1906 and, with merely $30,000 in capital (and the support of local business leaders), began to manufacture bedroom furniture under the name American Furniture Company.
In the 1920s, American Furniture Company expanded its offerings from bedroom furnishings. Alongside tallboy dressers and nightstands, Witten and Keesee’s outfit began to offer a range of dining-room sets to the discerning customer. By the 1950s, the name had been changed to American of Martinsville and the brand had gained a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship as well as its variety of furniture styles (Hollywood Regency, chinoiserie). Mass-marketed furniture meant big business in the postwar years and throughout the 20th century in Virginia, and factories owned by companies like Bassett Furniture and American of Martinsville remained busy as suburbanites bought furniture to fill the homes they were moving into.
It isn’t difficult to spot American of Martinsville’s sturdy, solid designs — the lacquered walnut nightstands, mahogany coffee tables and more have long earned the admiration of mid-century modernism enthusiasts. The company’s high profile also owes to prominent attributes that distinguish its well-made vintage furniture, such as the use of wooden slats — inspired by Scandinavian modernism — on hutches and cabinet doors, the famous brass x’s inlaid on the tops of tables and dressers and the stately stacked type of the American of Martinsville logo, which usually appears in drawer interiors. The stamp prominently features an eagle perched atop the lettering, its broad wings spread across the “American” portion.
Besides quality manufacturing, American of Martinsville is additionally recognized for having incorporated the trends of the day. Inspired by designers like George Nakashima and Paul Laszlo, the brand was also known for innovations 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 reportedly 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.
Shop a wide selection of vintage American of Martinsville mid-century modern sideboards, side tables and more on 1stDibs.
3
to
1
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
1
2
1
Height
to
Width
to
Depth
to
3
1
1
1
1
2
2
150
76
65
38
24
Creator: American of Martinsville
1960s Vintage American of Martinsville Expandable Rolling Bar Cart
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Waxahachie, TX
Classic Mid-Century Modern walnut expandable rolling bar cart or server, Manufactured by American of Martinsville, designed by Merton L. Gershun. Expanding black laminate sliding top...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Formica, Wood
Mid-Century Cart by Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Rolling bar cart with two drawers and bottom liquor shelf. Laminate top used for liquids.
Location: Brooklyn NY.
Category
1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Walnut
Delightful American of Martinsville Burled Light Wood Bar Cart Mid-Century
By American of Martinsville
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Delightful burled light wood bar cart made by American of Martinsville. This stylish piece is on roller and scoots around quite nicely. We love th...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass
Related Items
Vintage Bar Cart Expandable Brass & Glass Rolling Tea Serving
Located in Lake Worth, FL
Offering one of our recent palm beach estate fine furniture acquisitions of a
Vintage expandable brass & glass rolling 3 tier bar tea serving cart
Approximate measurements in...
Category
1960s Hollywood Regency Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Rolling Bar Cart
Located in New York, NY
This versatile cart was designed for use as a bar or serving cart, with an open lower shelf, two drawers for storage and a pull-out tray lined with black glass for serving. Finished ...
Category
1940s Swedish Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Fir
Elephant Rolling Bar Cart
By Marge Carson
Located in Stamford, CT
Marge Carson elephant rolling bar cart or table. Made of composition wood with a tinted glass top and brass rails.
Category
1980s American Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Composition
Vintage Rattan Rolling Bar Cart Server With Expanding Top
Located in Harlingen, TX
A vintage 1970's Palm Beach Regency rolling bar cart or server with extending top. Rattan framing with woven reed top surface, shelves, drawer face and side/back panels. This versati...
Category
Late 20th Century Indonesian Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Leather, Rattan, Reed, Wood
Danish Mid-Century Modern Teak Bar Cart by Brdr. Furbo
By BRDR Furbo
Located in San Carlos, CA
For sale we have a beautiful teak bar cart or tea cart made in Denmark by Brdr. Furbo.
This 2 tiered, Danish Mid-Century Modern Bar cart is in excellent structural shape and very...
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Teak
Mid-Century Wooden Bar Cart
Located in Haddonfield, NJ
Mid-Century Danish bar cart with plastic covered brass decorations. Top tray has sun related discoloration which appears to be a charming addition to a Classic Mid-Century design.
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Wood
Vintage Mid Century Modern Danish Style Rolling Media Cart. Circa 1960s
Located in Miami, FL
Vintage Mid Century Modern Danish Style Rolling Media Cart / TV Stand. C 1960s
This Beautiful Versatile Rolling Cart Features a sleek Mid Century Modern Design, a solid teak frame wi...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Wood
Aldo Tura Bar Cart or Mid-20th Century Bar Cart
By Aldo Tura
Located in Miami, FL
An Aldo Tura Mid-Century Modern Bar Cart/trolley. Two lacquered goatskin tiered shelves with brass mounts on four caster feet. Circa 1960. Label under lower shelf.
Measures: 33" Lo...
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass
Paul Jones Black Brown lacquered Rolling Serving /Bar Cart, 1960s
By Paul M. Jones
Located in Tarry Town, NY
Elevate your entertaining with this stylish Mid-Century Modern Brown and Black Lacquered Two-Tiered Rolling Serving Bar Cart, showcasing exquisite brass accents and castor details on...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass
Mid Century Teak Bar Cart
Located in Pasadena, TX
Mid century teak bar cart
Two tier cart In teak with brass trim. Castors. Section for bottles or glassware on bottom shelf.
Measures:...
Category
1960s European Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Teak
Danish Teak Expanding /Sliding Top Rolling Mini Bar Cart
Located in Kensington, MD
This personal-sized mini-bar rolls up to your chair for easy access.
Top slides open to bottle storage and provides a surface for serving.
Can substitute as an accent table with hidd...
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Teak
Mid-Century Bar Carts by Cesare Lacca, 1950s
Located in Roma, RM
Mid-century bar carts by Cesare Lacca, 1950s.
Structure made of wood with three removable trays - glass top (1 upper + 2 side)
and bottle holder. Brass details. Italian production, ...
Category
1950s Italian Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass
Previously Available Items
1960's American of Martinsville "Accord" Walnut Bar Cart
By American of Martinsville
Located in Chicago, IL
38” x 18.75” x 33.5”H overall; top surface is 31”H, bottom shelf height is 17.75”H
This vintage walnut American of Martinsville Accord...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Walnut
Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville 1960's Danish Style Rolling Bar Cart
By American of Martinsville
Located in West Hartford, CT
Mid-Century Modern and Danish modern styles collide, in a good way, with this rolling barcart that features caster wheels, a laminate top and gorgeous detail throughout including flo...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Laminate, Teak, Walnut
H 32 in W 38 in D 18 in
American of Martinsville Faux Bamboo Rattan Rolling Serving Bar Cart
By American of Martinsville
Located in Lake Worth, FL
For full item description be sure to click on CONTINUE READING at the bottom of this listing.
Offering one of our recent palm beach estate fine furniture acquisitions of a
American of Martinsville...
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Glass, Bamboo, Rattan
Classic Mid-Century Modern Walnut Expandable Rolling Bar Cart, Server
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Buffalo, NY
Classic Mid-Century Modern walnut expandable rolling bar cart or server, Manufactured by American of Martinsville, designed by Merton L. Gershun. Expanding white laminate sliding top...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Laminate, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Bar Cart
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Walnut and black laminate rolling bar cart by American of Martinsville. Laminate top and locking double doors below with storage drawer and wine racks. This piece includes a working ...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Laminate, Walnut
American Of Martinsville carts and bar carts for sale on 1stDibs.
American of Martinsville carts and bar carts are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of American of Martinsville carts and bar carts, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original carts and bar carts by American of Martinsville were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider carts and bar carts by Drexel, Charles Hollis Jones, and Mastercraft. Prices for American of Martinsville carts and bar carts can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,050 and can go as high as $1,750, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $1,440.
Creators Similar to American of Martinsville
Questions About American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021American of Martinsville, which was founded in 1906, is still in business. The company now manufactures furniture for hotel and healthcare industries.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 7, 2024How much an American of Martinsville dresser weighs can vary greatly. The dimensions and materials of the piece will determine its weight. Generally, highboy dressers will be the heaviest pieces produced by the American furniture maker due to their size. Shop a diverse assortment of American of Martinsville dressers on 1stDibs.
- What is Elgin American?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Elgin American was an American brand known for producing watches, jewelry and compacts during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Illinois Watchcase Company owned it. In 1901, the company abandoned the Elgin name due to trademark infringement claims made by the Elgin National Watch Co. Find a selection of Elgin American art, jewelry and watches on 1stDibs.
- What is American oak?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021American oak comes from oak trees that grow in America (as opposed to in Europe). While both are pale, American oaks have a slightly pink undertone and European oaks have a honey-hued undertone.
- What color is American walnut?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021With respect to the actual wood, the outer layer of American walnut — the sapwood — has a creamy yellow-white color whereas the inner layer — the heartwood — ranges from a golden brown to dark chocolate brown color. In more descriptive words, the color of American walnut embodies the richness of chocolate mixed with slight undertones of red wine. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage American walnut furniture.
- What is African American quilting?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022African American quilting has roots in history during slavery and was a way for African American women to bond. The quilts themselves tell stories of history, teach lessons and are beacons of hope. Shop a collection of African American quilts from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The history of African-American quilting stretches back almost as far as the beginning of the United States itself. The craft began with slave women quilting on plantations and after emancipation, the tradition of quilting continued. Today, there are many African American quilters who are inspired by a number of different quilting traditions. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of African-American quilts from some of the world’s top sellers.
- What is American cut glass?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021American cut glass is a technique used for decorating glass. The period from 1771 to 1876 is considered the early period of American cut glass — later, cut glass was called Brilliant glass. This technique is associated with high labor costs and involves the work of skilled craftsmen — American cut glass is considered a luxury item and can be very valuable.
- What do Americans call a sofa?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024What Americans call a sofa varies. Often, people living in the U.S. refer to an upholstered furnishing designed to hold more than one person as a couch. However, the word sofa is also commonly used in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021A Native American artifact is any object that provides insight into the lives and history of native people in America. These items range from carved stone pipes, weapons for hunting, tools for cooking, pottery, jewelry and more. Find a collection of artifacts on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023Some famous African-American artists include Horace Pippin, Augusta Savage, Romare Bearden, Jacob Lawrence, Aaron Douglas, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kerry James Marshall, Theaster Gates, Sam Gillam, Kara Walker and Kehinde Wiley. Shop a variety of African-American art from some of the world’s top galleries on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The most well-known Native American blankets come from Navajo weaving, which are prized by collectors worldwide. Originally utilitarian, the Navajo people began creating blankets specifically for export and tourism in the 19th century. Shop a collection of Navajo blankets from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What Native American drums are called varies by type. Ones designed to rest in the player's lap are hand drums, while instruments that hold water used primarily by the Iroquois and Yaqui are water drums. Large freestanding drums that produce loud percussive sounds are powwow drums. The Aztec and Hopi used foot drums. You'll find a range of Native American drums on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Native American slippers are called moccasins. Moccasins are characterized by their U-shaped puckered toe design and are crafted with various leathers such as sheepskin or buffalo. They may or may not be decorated with beading. Shop a collection of authentic moccasins from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022It depends on which region the beads were made since they were created out of available materials found in the land around them. In the Eastern Woodlands, white and purple marine shell beads were called “wampum”. You can shop a collection of Native American beadwork from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To identify Native American baskets, you can research the patterns using authoritative online resources to try and determine which tribe produced it. However, many replicas exist and there are many tribes that produced baskets. As a result, it is a good idea to consult a licensed appraiser. On 1stDibs, find a variety of expertly vetted Native American baskets.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What a Native American headdress represents depends on what tribe produced it. In general, headdresses may symbolize a person's status within the tribe or serve as a sign of bravery during battle. You'll find a selection of Native American headdresses on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021American Brilliant cut glass is deeply and sharply cut glass known for its reflective quality and highly polished nature. This type of glass is thick, heavy, and very clear.
Bonnin Ashley Antiques IncFebruary 23, 2021The difference between cut glass and cut crystal is the lead content along with some other criteria. "There are three primary criteria for crystal as established by the European Union in 1969: a lead content in excess of 24%, a density in excess of 2.90 and a reflective index of 1.545." "Prior to 1969 crystal glass was generally around 36% lead. However, due to concerns over lead leaching the percentage was reduced to the [unofficial} standard of 24%. Today glass with a lead content of 10% or more is considered to be crystal or “fine glass”" in the US. - 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024Yes, American Leather is good quality. Skilled artisans make every piece that bears the American furniture maker's name with precision computer-controlled systems to maximize quality while expediting the manufacturing process to allow custom-made pieces to be produced much more quickly. American Leather also uses computer systems to scan hides, ensuring that only the finest leathers are used as upholstery on its furniture. Find a variety of American leather furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024Yes, American Leather is real leather. The American furniture maker typically uses genuine glove leather for its upholstered pieces. Only the top 10% of hides in the world meet the company's standards. Shop a diverse assortment of American Leather furniture from some of the world's top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What Native Americans used to produce baskets varied from tribe to tribe. Generally, craftsmen used whatever materials were readily available. In the Northeast, sweet grass was a common material, while pine needles and wicker are frequently found in baskets produced by tribes in the Southeast. Find a range of vintage and antique baskets on 1stDibs.
Recently Viewed
View AllMore American of Martinsville Furniture
American of Martinsville End Tables
American of Martinsville Side Tables
American of Martinsville Coffee and Cocktail Tables
American of Martinsville Dining Room Tables
American of Martinsville Tables
American of Martinsville Center Tables
American of Martinsville Console Tables
American of Martinsville Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets
American of Martinsville Seating
American of Martinsville Mirrors
American of Martinsville Asian Art and Furniture
American of Martinsville Night Stands