Posted 8 years ago
oldrocker
(1 item)
There is no label under seat . Looks as if has been refinished years ago . Built very well and sits comfy. Highly recommended for years of family history ????
1890s murphy's rocking chair,Grandparents had one and i loved it ???? | ||
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Oh and this is the only one of this type if seen with out pressing's in back and upper arms ??
I have one just like it that was my grandfather's. My grandmother brought it to MD in the 1960s and she said she rocked her babies in it back in the 1910s. Mine also has the metal rods in the arms. I had wondered if that was an addition but I've seen it on a couple of chairs now.
Here's one with the pressed designs for comparison. Yours is beautiful rocker, with a beautiful dark finish. Along with some bumpf about the Murphy Chair Co., Detroit.
https://www.southwestspiritantiques.com/dynapage/IP922.htm
"1890's Murphy Chair Co. Pressed Back Rocking Chair w/Rolled Arms
A manly rocker, in room-ready condition! This beautiful rocking chair was manufactured by the Murphy Chair Company, Detroit, Michigan. The label is under the seat and is still readable. The president of the Murphy Chair Co., Michael J. Murphy, was the first Chamber of Commerce president for Detroit, Michigan in 1903. The company dates of operation are from the late 1800's to the early 1900's. This rocking chair is ash and oak mixed. It has long arrow shaped back slats, turned spindles, a lovely pressed design back and "ears", with shapely wide rolled arms. The rocker has been professionally refinished. Dimensions of the rocker are; 42 ?" tall, 33 1/4" deep including the runners, and 25 ?" wide. The seat area is 22 ?" wide, and 20" deep. A perfect rocking chair to while away some pleasant hours!"
Obviously you knew your rocker was a Murphy made rocker from 1890. But is it nice to know it's a "manly" rocker" ?
@jspinner - can you explain about the metal rods in the arms, please.