American of Martinsville Vintage Mid Century Modern Highboy Dresser c. 1960s
About the Item
- Creator:American of Martinsville (Manufacturer)
- Dimensions:Height: 52.5 in (133.35 cm)Width: 42.25 in (107.32 cm)Depth: 19 in (48.26 cm)
- Style:Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1960s
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Denville, NJ
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU8162238041442
American of Martinsville
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.
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Denville, NJ
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 2 days of delivery.
- American of Martinsville Vintage Mid Century Modern Lowboy Dresser c. 1960sBy American of MartinsvilleLocated in Denville, NJWe photograph and list inventory in the condition it arrives at our warehouse to streamline operations and focus on restoration for current orders. This also enables us to maintain a...Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
MaterialsWalnut
- United Furniture Co Vintage Mid Century Modern Highboy Dresser c. 1960sBy Broyhill Brasilia, United Furniture CorporationLocated in Denville, NJDiscover the distinct charm of United Furniture, a standout in the realm of mid-century modern furniture. With a unique blend of bold and funky designs, this brand exemplifies the pe...Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
MaterialsBrass
- Kent Coffey Forum Vintage Mid Century Modern Highboy Dresser c. 1960sBy Broyhill Brasilia, Kent-CoffeyLocated in Denville, NJWe photograph and list inventory in the condition it arrives at our warehouse to streamline operations and focus on restoration for current orders. This also enables us to maintain a constant supply of new inventory. Our Vintage Restoration Process is included at no additional cost with every furniture purchase. Trust us to carefully restore your item, addressing imperfections like lacquer finish failure, chips, and deep scratches. Our skilled team goes beyond surface treatment, thoroughly cleaning each piece and ensuring smooth operation of movable parts like doors and drawers. Receive a high-quality vintage furniture piece that will stand the test of time. We will gladly share photos of our recent restorations -- please message us! REACH OUT FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE! Indulge in the refined charm of mid-century modern aesthetics with this Highboy Dresser by Kent Coffey, a rare gem from the Forum collection dating back to the 1960s. This exquisite vintage find seamlessly blends rich walnut and pecan finishes, radiating warmth and sophistication that stands the test of time in any living space. Meticulous attention to detail is evident in the sculpted wood legs and beautifully carved curves on the drawers, showcasing the hallmark features of mid-century modern design. With 6 drawers, this Highboy Dresser offers convenient storage without compromising on the graceful design. Elevate your bedroom with the exquisite craftsmanship and iconic design of the Kent Coffey Forum...Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
MaterialsWalnut
- United Furniture Diamond Front Mid Century Modern Highboy Dresser c. 1960sBy United Furniture CorporationLocated in Denville, NJWe photograph and list inventory in the condition it arrives at our warehouse to streamline operations and focus on restoration for current orders. This also enables us to maintain a...Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
MaterialsWalnut
- American of Martinsville Vintage Mid Century Modern Pair of Nightstands c. 1960sBy American of MartinsvilleLocated in Denville, NJWe photograph and list inventory in the condition it arrives at our warehouse to streamline operations and focus on restoration for current orders. This also enables us to maintain a...Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Night Stands
MaterialsWalnut
- Sculpted Legs Vintage Mid Century Modern Lowboy Dresser c. 1960sBy Vladimir KaganLocated in Denville, NJWe photograph and list inventory in the condition it arrives at our warehouse to streamline operations and focus on restoration for current orders. This also enables us to maintain a...Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
MaterialsWalnut
- Mid Century American of Martinsville Highboy DresserBy American of Martinsville, Merton GershunLocated in Baltimore, MDThis exceedingly well-crafted American of Martinsville highboy dresser was designed by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsv...Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
MaterialsWalnut, Faux Leather
- 1950's Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Highboy DresserBy American of MartinsvilleLocated in Burbank, CAOriginal 1950's Mid-Century Modern dresser for sale. Manufactured by American of Martinsville, and very solidly constructed. It has five drawers, and has been professionally refinish...Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
MaterialsWood
- Midcentury Walnut American of Martinsville Highboy DresserBy American of MartinsvilleLocated in Brooklyn, NYVintage-modern highboy dresser by American of Martinsvile featuring six drawers with beautiful walnut grain throughout. Please confirm item location NY or NJ with dealer.Category
Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Dressers
MaterialsWalnut
- American of Martinsville Mid-Century Bleached Mahogany and Brass Highboy DresserBy American of MartinsvilleLocated in South Bend, INA gorgeous Mid-Century Modern Hollywood Regency seven-drawer highboy dresser By American of Martinsville USA, Circa 1960s Bleached mahogany, with brass trim and hardware. ...Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
MaterialsBrass
- Albert Parvin for American of Martinsville Mid Century Diamond Highboy DresserBy American of MartinsvilleLocated in Countryside, ILAlbert Parvin for American of Martinsville mid century diamond highboy dresser This dresser measures: 38.5 wide x 18.5 deep x 48 inches high All ...Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
MaterialsWood
- Milo Baughman Style American of Martinsville Mid Century Blonde Highboy DresserBy American of Martinsville, Milo BaughmanLocated in Countryside, ILMilo Baughman style American of Martinsville mid century blonde highboy dresser Dresser measures: 36 wide x 20.5 deep x 44 inches high All p...Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
MaterialsChrome