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Eldred Wheeler
Collector’s Edition Catalog
Each Eldred Wheeler edition is
created by hand, maintaining
the same traditions as 18th
Century handcrafted furniture.
An Eldred Wheeler original
can be identified by our unique
brand and label, which indicates
a quality investment that will
last for future generations.
Handcrafters of Fine 18th Century American Furniture
- Authored by Emmett W. Eldred, Eldred Wheeler Co-founder
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Eldred Wheeler: A Collector’s Guide is intended
as a comprehensive reference source for anyone
interested in Eldred Wheeler furniture. It contains
pictorial and production guides covering all major
pieces, along with a narrative history of the company’s
Eldred Wheeler: A Collector’s Guide
evolution. The guide includes descriptions of the
E m m e t t W. E l d r e d
design process,
brought to life
through the stories of crafting more than twenty prototypes. An authentication
section details the company’s labeling and branding practices, and describes identifying
characteristics such as unique design and construction features. Because of its
comprehensiveness, this volume should be of interest to Eldred Wheeler collectors, fine
furniture dealers, designers, woodworkers, and anyone merely interested in learning
more about handcrafted furniture.
d
Han
Emmet Eldred and his business partner, Bill
Wheeler, launched their shoestring enterprise in
1977. From its first home, in Hanson, Massachusetts,
Eldred Wheeler grew from a four-man shop building
with a bare handful of items to one of the nation’s
premier designers and builders of 18th Century
country high style furniture. Today, the company
crafts a wide variety of sought-after period forms,
ranging from simple Queen Anne tea tables to fancarved highboys and lowboys to elaborately detailed
bonnet-top secretary desks. Cherry and maple,
including tiger maple, remain the preferred woods.
The quality and historical credibility of Eldred
Wheeler furniture spawned a loyal and cherished
following of customers and collectors, which
continues to grow.
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CONTENTS
9–12
Secretary Desks
Collector’s Edition
13–18 Small Desks/Library Desk/
Writing Tables/Bookcases
19–22Highboys
26–29 Chests-on-Chests
32–35 Chests-on-Frames
36–39 Chests-of-Drawers
40–43 Chippendale Chests
44–45 Blanket Chests and Mule Chest
48–51 Cupboards
52–54Linen Press and Storage Cabinets
55–58 Formal Dining Tables and Chairs
59–62 Country Dining Tables and Chairs
64–65 Windsor Chairs
66–69Huntboards/Sideboards/Servers
70–71Lowboys
74–77 Tea and Coffee Tables
78–79 End Tables
80–81 Candlestands
82–83 Mirrors, Quilt Rack, and Pipebox
84–85 Stools and Benches
86–87 Nightstands
A must-have companion for any Eldred Wheeler Collector, our beautiful
hardcover book “Eldred Wheeler: A Collector’s Guide” by Emmett Eldred is
now available for purchase at any Eldred Wheeler location or on Amazon.com.
MAIL ORDER: (800) 779-5310 / (781) 826-5700 • VISIT US ONLINE: www.eldredwheeler.com
SHOWROOMS: 444 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT (203) 529-3100 • 15 Columbia Road, Pembroke, MA (781) 826-5704
89–98 Beds
99–101 Custom Cabinetry
Eldred Wheeler’s 1980s Pembroke
Shop and Team. Emmett Eldred
2nd from right in foreground; Bill
Wheeler 3rd from left in foreground.
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Shown here:
Emmett Eldred and Bill Wheeler
in the early years of Eldred Wheeler
T
O
ne of the important aspects of early American furniture was the outstanding quality of the materials used in its
construction. Common primary woods included maple, cherry, walnut, birch, mahogany and oak; secondary
woods were most often pine, poplar and chestnut.
In order to create a visually attractive surface, wide boards were used wherever possible. Sometimes board widths
exceeded 30 inches. These “giants” are rarely found today.
We search throughout New England for giant logs. These logs are then sawed to obtain maximum board width.
The wood is carefully stacked and dried; and then only after it has reached the proper moisture content, it is ready to
be used.
Most of our work is representative of what is termed “country high style.” Since cherry, maple and tiger maple
were used extensively for New England pieces, we have elected to work primarily with these fine American woods.
The fittings on 18th Century furniture were also of outstanding quality. Each brass fixture was cast and filed to
a beveled edge to accentuate its intricate outline. We select the finest brasses to achieve this same desired effect.
he joinery techniques utilized in
colonial America produced furniture
which was sturdy and would withstand the test
of time. Common methods of early joinery
included the dovetail joint and the mortise and
tenon joint.
Typically, dovetail joints were used in
the construction of cases for chests and desks,
and in the assembly of drawers. Mortise and
tenon joints were used to attach legs to frames,
and often the tenon was secured to the mortise
with a small wooden peg.
Both of these techniques required great
skill, since each dovetail or tenon joint had to be
carefully marked, cut and hand-fitted. Today, it
is common to find these joints holding securely
after 200 years of use.
At Eldred Wheeler we utilize these
same time-proven construction techniques
for all of our furniture. Each piece is then
hand-planted and scraped to achieve a surface
typical of fine antiques. Though these methods
substantially increase the labor involved, we find
the enhanced quality of each piece warrants our
extra efforts.
A
nother important feature of early
American furniture is handcarving. A precisely carved shell or fan can
significantly add to the beauty and value of
a piece.
The carver’s talent is also demonstrated
in more subtle ways. Consider, for example, the
skill involved in forming a cabriole leg or the
fluting of a quarter column. The quality of 18th
Century carving is not easily matched today.
Not only had the early carvers developed their
skills after years of experience, but their work
possessed a certain “look” that harmonized with
the overall appearance of the piece.
Our carvers, too, have spent years
developing their skills, and each craftsman has a
keen awareness of furniture design to help him
capture the expression and character of 18th
Century carvings.
Since carving is a time-consuming
skill, there is no acceptable means to reduce the
labor required to handcarve a piece of furniture.
This accounts for the increased cost and,
consequently, the increased value of our
carved pieces.
W
e finish each piece by hand
because the final appearance is
essential to what we call “furniture investment.”
It is through the finishing process that the beauty
of the wood color and grain becomes apparent.
Fine, handmade and properly finished
furniture will appreciate in value over time as do
quality antiques. As you know, antique furniture
has a patina — a “feel” or “look” which adds
to its distinctiveness and value. Part of our
expertise, the result of years of experimentation,
is the duplication of this antique patina.
As in 18th Century America, we use
shellac as our primary finish material. Even
though this finish process is more labor intensive
than other methods, we believe that no other
treatment matches the warmth and depth of a
high-quality shellac finish.
Each Eldred Wheeler edition is
finished to order and labeled before leaving our
workshop. Care cards are also included with
each piece.
“ The things I make may be for others,
but how I make them is for me.”
Tony Konovaloff
Secretary Desks
Bonnet Top Secretary Desk
Flat Top Secretary Desk
Detail of concave carved fan.
Simply ideal for the office setting, at home or in the corporate setting.
Detail of interior section showing handcrafted compartments.
Bonnet Top Secretary Desk circa 1770-1780
Country Bonnet Top Secretaries are extremely scarce,
particularly desks as detailed as the one pictured. The
general form of this piece, the pattern of the bonnet,
the design of the interior, and the shape of the ogee
foot are characteristic of the southern Massachusetts
or Connecticut area. Our secretary desk includes all of
the exacting details of an original piece. The stepped
serpentine interior is both blocked- and fan-carved.
There are 12 small drawers and 14 secret drawers. The
upper case is fitted with 3 small drawers, numerous
pigeon holes and adjustable shelves. The raised panel
doors open to reveal 2 carved fans in the upper domed
section. The bonnet is formed by bending thin sheets
of pine over the bonnet frame and securing them with
rosehead nails. As with all our desks, only a single
board is used for the lid.
Flat Top Secretary Desk circa 1760-1790
While country desks were plentiful in 18th Century New
England, secretary desks appear to have been much less
common. Our secretary is one of the finest country versions.
The piece is fitted with a fan-carved, stepped and serpentine
interior. There are 11 small drawers and 3 secret compartments
in the lower interior section. The upper section is fitted with
3 small drawers and 2 removable shelves. The use of the raised
panel “tombstone” doors is characteristic of the Queen Anne
nature of this desk/bookcase. As on most of the finer secretaries,
candle slides emerge just below the bottom of the 2 doors. We
judge the original of this piece to be from Connecticut, near the
Rhode Island border.
Height 78 1/4” Width 37” Depth 22” Writing Height 30 1/2”
Height 85 1/2” Width 37 1/2” Depth 22”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
11
About Our Secretaries
Small Desks, Library Desk, Writing Tables, Bookcases
Eldred Wheeler has long been
known as the premier crafter of Country
High Style New England Furniture
from the late 18th Century. The charm
of country high style is that it blends
the best of formal urban cabinet design
with the free expression and vitality of
rural craftsmen, yielding an American
art form which reflects the values and
independent spirit of the developing
American nation.
While the craftsmanship of these
secretaries presents numerous unique
challenges for our craftsmen, there is
certainly no departure here from our
normal devotion to the use of the finest
materials, as well as the use of traditional
methods. We select wide boards of
cherry or tiger maple for hand-planing
and scraping. Then, classic 18th
Century joinery techniques are used to
assemble each design. Finishing is done
by hand using time-tested formulas. We
believe the end result is unique furniture
which elicits the same excitement
produced by comparable antiques.
We are proud of our work and truly enjoy creating furniture for people
who appreciate 18th Century American antiques and wish to own
selected pieces in the style and workmanship of earlier craftsmen.
Eldred Wheeler’s master craftsman handcrafting the serpentine interior
case of our Flat Top Secretary Desk.
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Library Desk / File Chest
Slant-Lid Desk
Slant-Lid Desk circa 1760-1780
This small desk is similar to antiques known to
have been made in the northern Connecticut
area. This piece is fitted with a fan-carved,
stepped and serpentine interior. As with all our
desks, the lid is made from a single board.
Height 41 1/2” Width 38” Depth 19 1/2”
Library Desk circa 1790-1800
This desk is designed to provide an excellent writing surface with two banks of drawers, to the user’s
left and right. The drawers have hand-filed brass hardware, and the outer case of the desk features
raised-panel construction. The desk may be ordered with file drawers inside of the area fronted by the
two lower drawers in the left and right pedestals. These files are offered in standard and legal sizes.
Height 30” Width 64” Depth 34”
Legal File Drawer Dimensions Height 16 1/2” Width 15” Depth 34”
Four Drawer File Chest circa 1760-1780
This four-drawer low chest is identical in dimension
and construction to our Chippendale four-drawer chest.
The difference is that the two lower drawer faces are
actually combined into a clever false front made of the
same hardwood, masking a double bank of files behind
the fronts. This chest, therefore, will give any home or
office work area style and function. This chest features
the hardwood top highlighted by the exposed dovetail
joinery present on all Chippendale chests that Eldred
Wheeler produces. Specify standard or legal file size.
Height 33 1/2” Width 35” Depth 18 1/2”
Special interior version of our Slant-Lid Desk, by Emmett Eldred
(not currently available)
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Writing Tables
Bookcases
Breakfront Bookcase circa 1750-1760
This sturdy piece of furniture is believed to have originated
in Massachusetts around 1750-1760. During that period,
only the highly educated and wealthy aristocrats, landowners,
and merchants owned books. They valued their books
highly, ensuring their books were stored in a safe area. Eldred
Wheeler’s version contains two moveable shelves in each of
the top elements, and one moveable shelf in each bottom case.
Height 75 1/2” Width 96” Depth 16” (center) 14” (ends)
Rhode Island Three-Drawer Writing Table circa 1780-1790
This Chippendale form was found in many New England homes in the
late 18th Century. The fluted legs and hand molding characterize the piece
as originated from the Rhode Island area. The Writing Table provides a
comfortable writing height. The piece is not only commonly used as a writing
table, but also sees service in larger hallways.
Height 30” Width 52” Depth 19”
Rhode Island Three-Drawer Writing Surface
circa 1780-1790
The writing surface is the version of the form most likely
to see extensive use as a work surface in either the home
or office environment. The deeper writing top permits
computer and keyboard placement while retaining an
adequate working surface.
Early American Bookcase w/ Ogee Feet circa 1790-1810
Our handcrafted bookcase is featured with carved ogee fee, giving
the piece added elegance. Designed with one fixed shelf and three
adjustable shelves, the straight-forward lines on this piece depict a New
England style indicative of classic functionality. Inset photo features a
solid base.
Height 30” Width 52” Depth 34”
Height 75” Width 44” Depth 14”
Low Bookcase circa 1790-1810
Our three-shelf bookcase is a smaller version of our taller
bookcase featuring the same traditional classic lines. This
particular bookcase is perfect for those quaint spaces at home.
Height 36” Width 44” Depth 14”
Rhode Island Two-Drawer Writing Table
circa 1780-1790
The writing table’s fluted legs and band molding
characterize the piece as originating from the Rhode Island
area. This table is used not only as a writing table, but also
sees service in entry hallways.
Height 30 3/4” Width 36 1/2” Depth 19”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Queen Anne Desk
Highboys
Queen Anne Desk on Frame circa 1750-1760
This is an early example of a small Queen Anne Desk on Frame. The interior
is modeled after an antique desk with suitable space for desk supplies. The
beautifully-shaped cabriole legs and well-defined feet combine with the
finely-scrolled apron to form a very desirable lady’s desk.
Height 40 3/8” Width 25 5/8” Depth 17”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Flat Top Highboy
Dunlap Highboy
Detail of the hand-carved fan on top drawer.
Detail of carved fan and delicate basketweave removable top.
Dunlap Highboy circa 1795-1810
Flat Top Highboy circa 1750-1780
The Queen Anne period was most noted for the
introduction of the cabriole leg. This graceful curve
was used with paramount success throughout New
England. Our Flat Top Highboy is one example of
how a carefully-carved cabriole leg can add grace to
a piece which might otherwise appear rather “boxlike.” The fan-carved bottom drawer and matching
top drawer impart a symmetry to the overall design.
Since proportion played a major role in the design
of better highboys, we chose a five-drawer top to
complement the highboy base.
Our Highboy is typical of a style made by the
Dunlap family of cabinetmakers working in Chester
and Salisbury, New Hampshire, at the end of the
18th Century. This highboy is one of the rarer forms
of Dunlap furniture. The “spoon handle” carving in
the base flanking the salamander scrolls is a typical
Dunlap design. The delicate “basketweave” carving
and fans superimposed on the top are removable.
Both the tip drawer in the upper case and the
bottom one in the lower case are single drawers
simulated to appear as three. This drawer treatment
is common to many colonial New Hampshire case
pieces. This highboy is similar to other Dunlap
pieces exhibited at the Currier Gallery of Art in
Manchester, New Hampshire.
Height 78” Width 39” Depth 20”
Height 70 1/2” Width 36 1/2” Depth 20 1/2”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Bonnet Top Highboy
Detail of top showing molded bonnet and delicately carved pinwheels.
Bonnet Top Highboy circa 1760-1780
This highboy is characteristic of the best in country
high-style cabinetry. The perfectly molded bonnet and
the delicately-carved pinwheels and fans indicate a high
level of cabinet-making skill. The overall design of the
skirt and the tall, delicate legs indicate that the original
was from the Wethersfield, Connecticut, area. The
bonnet top is formed by bending a thin piece of pine
over the top frame and securing it with rosehead nails.
There are two “secret” drawers in the opening inside
the bonnet.
Height 86 1/16” Width 38 1/4” Depth 21 1/4”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
"Freedom lies in being bold. "
Robert Frost
“It’s not work, if you love what you’re doing.”
- Steve Sears
Bonnet Top Chest-on-Chest
Chests on Chests
Detail of finely molded bonnet top and hand-carved pinwheels.
Bonnet Top Chest-on-Chest circa 1760-1780
This chest is characteristic of those made in the latter
part of the 18th Century. The ogee foot and carved
fans elevate this piece to one of the better Connecticut
designs. Just like the original, this piece has separate,
contoured top drawers and two “secret” drawers located
inside the bonnet.
Height 85” Width 37” Depth 19 1/2”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Dunlap Chest on Chest-on-Frame
Flat Top Chest-on-Chest
Detail of beautifully-crafted flowering ogee and egg and dart molding.
Detail of delicate basketweave removable top (as option with upcharge).
Dunlap Chest on Chest-on-Frame circa
Flat Top Chest-on-Chest circa 1770-1785
1790-1800
The original of this chest was probably constructed in
New Hampshire. The Dunlap family of cabinetmakers
made simple chests such as this. Occasionally, they
would add a basket weave top like the one on our
Dunlap-style highboy.
Furniture made by members of the Dunlap family
is unmistakable in design. The sunrise fan carvings
in the base flanking the horizontal “s” scrolls are
distinctive Dunlap characteristics. The upper case is
embellished with flowering ogee and egg and dart
moldings. Both the top drawer in the upper case and
the bottom one in the lower case are single drawers
simulated to appear as three. Our chest on cheston-frame is similar to the piece exhibited at the Yale
University Art Gallery in the Maple Grady Garvan
Collection.
Height 72” Width 37” Depth 18 1/2”
(Height with basket 77 1/2”)
Height 78” Width 41” Depth 21 1/2”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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"A great artist is always before his time or behind it."
George Edward Moore
Chests on Frames
Dunlap Chest-on-Frame (Collector Series)
Dunlap Six-Drawer Chest-on-Frame (Collector Series) circa 1770-1790
The unmistakable design of the Dunlap Family of southern New Hampshire is reproduced faithfully in what the Dunlaps called a “low case of drawers.” The Dunlaps
regularly made case furniture supported by a separate frame. The frame features flowering ogee molding and salamander scrolls flanked by two carved shells. Both
the top drawer with star-point carving and the bottom drawer with fan carving are single drawers simulated to appear as three. The chest-on-frame is one of the most
powerful forms in rural American furniture.
Height 57 1/8” Width 40” Depth 19 1/4”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Dunlap Chests-on-Frames
Queen Anne Chests-on-Frames
Dunlap Chest-on-Frame circa 1790-1795
Our handcrafted Chest-on-Frame exhibits many
characteristics of the original Dunlap chest, including
the scrolled front skirt, finely modeled cabriole legs
and kneeblocks, pronounced upper molding, and the
exposed dovetail top. The Dunlap Cabinetmakers
worked in New Hampshire toward the end of the
18th Century and are best known for their chests
and highboys.
Queen Anne Mini Chest-on-Frame
circa 1760-1780
This chest is a smaller version of the Queen
Anne Chest-on-Frame as depicted below.
Exhibiting the same carvings indicated in
the scalloped skirt and our trademark fan,
this mini chest-on-frame can serve as a
lingerie or silver chest.
Height 57 1/8” Width 40” Depth 19 1/4”
Height 42 1/2” Width 23 1/4” Depth 15 1/4”
Dunlap Five Drawer Chest-on-Frame
circa 1790-1800
The spoonhandle and salamander scroll carvings
on the frame of this chest are characteristic of the
Dunlap family of cabinetmakers. The original of
this chest-on-frame is one of their rarer forms. The
top drawer is carved with a star-point fan and is
simulated to look like three drawers. While many
Dunlap pieces were much wider, making them
appear massive in many of today’s homes, the
size of our edition is especially desirable-- only 33
inches across the case. We have followed Dunlap
construction details to the letter, including the
typical turning on the bottom of the foot pads and
drawer bottoms.
Height 62 1/2” Width 37” Depth 20 1/8”
Queen Anne Five Drawer Chest-on-Frame
circa 1760-1780
The scalloped skirt on this chest-on-frame is
characteristic of those made in Connecticut and
Massachusetts in the mid-18th Century. Like the
best early examples, the top drawer is carved with a
fan and is simulated to look like three drawers. The
Queen Anne Chest-on-Frame is one of the rarest Early
American case pieces. The design is a little more elegant
than a chest-of-drawers, but not as overwhelming as a
highboy. We have also designed a smaller scale cheston-frame, as shown above, which is a popular size and
exhibits similar Queen Anne period detail.
Height 62 1/2” Width 37” Depth 19 1/2”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Block & Shell Chest / Block-Front Bureau
From the Collection of the Newport Historical Society.
Chests of Drawers
Block and Shell Chest circa 1760-1780
This chest has many of the characteristics of those made by the
Goddards and Townsends of Newport, Rhode Island. Its block front
form with detailed carved shells and scrolled ogee feet is considered
by many to be the ultimate in American furniture. Our chest
most likely originated in Providence, Rhode Island. It is somewhat
more provincial than those made in Newport, both in design and
construction. A likely attribution for the chest is Cabinetmaker
Grindall Rawson, who was well-renowned for his Block and Shell
creations. Rawson’s work was primarily in cherry woods. Our Block
and Shell Chest is offered in cherry, tiger maple, and mahogany.
Height 34 1/4” Width 38” Depth 20 1/4”
Massachusetts Four Drawer Chest circa 1750-1780
Large chests in the Chippendale style were occasionally made
by frugal New Englanders applying a top or feet and decorative
mouldings to one section of a Chest-on-Chest or Highboy when
the other section was damaged or broken up by passing them on
to succeeding generations. Our chest follows in this tradition and
provides more storage space for bulky sweaters than our smaller
four drawer chest.
Height 36 3/4” Width 40” Depth 20 3/4”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Philadelphia Bureau
Four-Drawer Chests
Serpentine Chest circa 1750-1790
Philadelphia Bureau circa 1760-1780
This elaborate version of the serpentine chest can be
attributed to the young artisan Langley Boardman,
who made his residence in Portsmouth after leaving
Salem at the tender age of seventeen. The essential
elements include the serpentine front, canted corners,
graduated drawers, and bracket feet. This English
rococo design was adopted by American craftsmen
and modified in various ways. Toward the end of
the 18th Century, the also enhanced the form with
neoclassical details and replaced the graduated
drawers with drawers of equal height.
This four-drawer chest-of-drawers has fluted quarter columns
and features an ogee foot that is skillfully carved to avoid
heaviness. The brass is post and bail, and the drawers
themselves are lip drawers. Offered in tiger maple (shown
left) or cherry (below).
Height 35 1/8” Width 41 1/8” Depth 19 1/8”
Height 34 1/2” Width 37” Depth 20”
Our Serpentine chest is made with
the standard bracket feet as shown
above. Pictured left is with ogee feet,
which can be custom-ordered.
Oxbow Chest circa 1770-1790
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
John Trumbull
The Declaration of Independance, 4 July 1776
Yale University Art Gallery
Trumbull Collection
This chest features a complete side-to-side oxbow front,
typical of those found on chests built in the Boston
area during the 18th Century. The Oxbow, or reverseserpentine chest, was often built in mahogany wood.
Our chest, built in either tiger maple or cherry, provides
a rare form with a high country style. Important
elements include a molded counter top and a carved
ogee base.
Height 34 1/2” Width 37 3/4” Depth 20 1/2”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Chippendale Chest-of-Drawers
Chippendale Chests
Shown is the through dovetail construction typical of cabinetmakers
of the colonial era.
Ten-Drawer Chest circa 1760-1780
This particular photograph, courtesy of photographer J. David Bohl, appeared on the cover of the October 1996 issue
of Early American Homes. Shown above is Eldred Wheeler’s own six-drawer Chippendale chest. Features of the piece are
described in detail in this section.
This Chippendale carved curly maple or cherry tall
chest-of-drawers was produced in New England
and could have been found in almost any region
of the area. Slightly wider than our chests, the tendrawer chest features a hand-carved center drawer
and ogee foot. As was common with most chests of
this period, this piece features hardwood top and
exposed dovetails.
Height 56” Width 37” Depth 19 1/2”
Our 18th Century style Chippendale chests are a beautiful complement to any master bedroom or guest bedroom. The
ten-drawer, six-drawer, and five-drawer chests feature a hand-carved top drawer. Additionally, all of our Chippendale
Chests-of-Drawers possess the thru-dovetail construction that combines construction excellence and aesthetic value for
which this form is known.
To make your bedroom complete, view our bed section and select one of the many elegant styles of 18th Century beds.
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
41
Chippendale Chests-of-Drawers
Chippendale Chests-of-Drawers
Five-Drawer Chippendale Chest circa 1760-1770
This simple Chippendale chest is especially desirable because of its narrow width.
Measuring only 33” across its case, the original was surely one of the smallest
made in colonial New England. They afforded more space than a four-drawer
chest and, unlike their six-drawer counterpart, left room for a mirror to hang on
the wall above. Our chest is constructed exactly like the original with a hardwood
top, exposed dovetails, and a hand-carved fan in the center of the top drawer.
Six-Drawer Chippendale Chest circa 1760-1780
Tall chests were very popular in rural New England. Most of them were much
larger and considerably plainer than the one pictured here. This Chippendale
chest is only 33 inches wide across the case, an exceptionally narrow dimension
for such a chest. The star-point carving indicates New Hampshire as the area of
origin. Like the original, our chest has a hardwood top with exposed dovetails.
The top drawer is a single unit constructed to simulate three drawers.
Height 48” Width 36 3/4” Depth 19 1/2”
Height 53 3/4” Width 36 3/4” Depth 19 3/8”
Mini Five-Drawer Chippendale Chest with Ogee Feet
circa 1760-1770
Small Four-Drawer Chippendale Chest circa 1770-1780
Pictured lower left, this scaled-down, five-drawer chest design was used primarily
in a child’s room. Country miniature pieces were uncommon because they were
not considered as practical as the larger pieces. This chest has a carved fan and is
available with bracket or ogee feet.
This piece is an example of a rare 18th Century New England form. This scaleddown, four-drawer chest design was used primarily in a child’s room. Country
miniature pieces were uncommon because they were not considered as practical
as the larger pieces. This chest has an exposed dovetail top, and its nightstand
height makes it useful as a bedroom piece. Available with bracket or ogee feet.
Height 29” Width 23 1/2” Depth 14 1/2”
Height 28 1/4” Width 24” Depth 16 1/4”
Five-Drawer Chippendale Chest with Tiger Maple Drawers
and Hepplewhite Brass circa 1760-1770
Four-Drawer Chippendale Chest circa 1760-1780
This chest maintains the same features as our standard five-drawer chest, but
with a cherry case set off by tiger maple drawer fronts. Each drawer has authentic
Hepplewhite reproduction brass pulls.
A great variety of Chippendale low chests were produced throughout colonial
New England. The tops on many overhung the base and were molded on the
edge; still others had a molding attached to the sides of the case. We have chosen
a simple four-drawer chest with a hardwood top, highlighted by the exposed
dovetail joinery.
Height 48” Width 36 1/4” Depth 19 1/2”
Height 33 1/2” Width 35” Depth 18 1/2”
Available with
bracket feet.
Available with ogee feet
at a modest upcharge.
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
43
Blanket Chests / Mule Chest
Blanket Chests and Mule Chests
Mule Chest Dresser circa 1750-1760
Our practical dresser is derived from an early
colonial form which originated in Englad.
These early chests were referred to as “mule”
chests because of their capacity to hold large
quantities of linens or other soft goods.
Ample drawer space makes our “mule” chest
ideal for today’s bedrooms.
Height 34” Width 60 1/2” Depth 20”
Nantucket Blanket Chest
circa 1780-1790
Our two-drawer Nantucket Blanket Chest has
many design characteristics associated with
pieces made on Nantucket Island. Inlaid hears
and the hand-painted compass-point star
were a favorite nautical interest and vocation.
Made in maple only.
Height 25 1/4” Width 39” Depth 19 1/2”
Tiger Maple Blanket Chest
with two drawers circa 1780-1790
Our two-drawer Blanket Chest is made
in tiger maple and retains the full size and
construction of our regular blanket chest, but
without the inlaid hearts and compass points.
(Optional finished back at modest upcharge.)
Height 25 1/4” Width 39” Depth 19 1/2”
Also available without drawers
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
45
T he Charm of Country High Style Blends the
. . . Yi e l d i n g a n A m e r i c a n A r t F o r m W h i c h R e f l e c t s
Best of Formal Urban Cabinet Design with the
t h e Va l u e s a n d I n d e p e n d e n t S p i r i t o f t h e
F r e e E x p r e s s i o n a n d Vi t a l i t y o f R u r a l C r a f t s m e n . . .
Developing American Nation.
-Emmett Eldred
Cupboards
Corner Cupboard with Glass Door
Corner Cupboard with Glass Door
circa 1770
Commonly built into the corner of a dining
room, a corner cupboard was often an
architectural extension of the home. This freestanding cupboard, which was copied from
a piece found in Connecticut, features full
shelves to maximize interior storage space. The
door is comprised of 12 panes of high quality
antique reproduction glass with the three top
panes being arched.
Height 82 1/2” Width 44” Depth 18”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
49
Corner Cupboard with Solid Doors
Stepback Cupboard
Corner Cupboard circa 1770
Commonly built into the corner of a dining room, a
corner cupboard was often an architectural extension
of the home. This free-standing cupboard, which was
copied from a piece found in Connecticut, features
butterfly shelves with molded edges, and arched
doors with raised panels.
Height 82 1/2” Width 44” Depth 18”
Stepback Cupboard circa 1760-1790
The stepback cupboard with glazed glass doors was a prized and coveted possession of those from the 18th Century. The 12-pane version depicted here was a scarce
but handsome example of the simplicity of that era. The 8-pane was the choice of most households and would be most often found at auctions today. This piece
exhibits the exquisite chamfered side and attention to detail the craftsmen of that period so proudly displayed. Stepback cupboards, being almost invariably two-part
pieces, have been prone to divorce and remarriage, so that often either the top case or the bottom case would be found with something other than its original mate.
Height 80” Width 51” Depth 18”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
51
Linen Press
Linen Press, Storage Cabinets
Linen Press circa 1780-1790
The design of our linen press originated in
Connecticut, and the piece was used primarily
for storage. The upper case features raised panel
doors. The interior has an adjustable shelf, as well
as a permanent shelf which provides proper height
for viewing in a bedroom environment. We have
adapted its original design to accommodate a
television and VCR, or stereo system. The lower
case has three drawers that provide ample storage
for CDs and VCR tapes.
Height 79 1/2” Width 45” Depth 27”
Upper Case Inside Depth 22 1/2”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Storage Cabinet / Low Cupboard
Formal Dining
Shown above is our Storage Cabinet with two drawers below and raised
panel doors (see opposite page).
Storage Cabinet circa 1740-1780
Also known as a schrank, our cabinets feature raised paneled doors
opening to a shelved interior. This storage cabinet features two
drawers below the doors. These units are very well suited for use
as entertainment centers, with an adjustable shelf and a fixed shelf
providing room for most standard televisions and other components.
Available in cherry or tiger maple.
Height 66” Width 43 1/2” Depth 23” Inside Depth 22 1/2”
Low Cupboard circa 1760-1790
A low cupboard in the Chippendale style inspired as a
variation from Stepback Cupboards, this piece exhibits
chamfered sides, flush-mount raised panel doors, and barrel
hinges. In today’s home, this piece will function as a storage
cupboard or a sideboard.
Height 37 1/4” Width 51” Depth 18”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Formal Tables and Chairs
Formal Chairs / Settee
Chippendale Double Settee
This Double Chair Settee is based on our carved
Chippendale Chair form. The top crest rail carving
of the two sides flow gracefully together at the center
of the chair back. Our settee features handcrafted
splats, crest rails, and arm knuckles. The seat may be
upholstered in your choice of fabrics.
Height 40” Width 59” Depth 21 1/2”
Chippendale Arm Chair circa 1780-1790
Pedestal Dining Table circa 1750-1770
20” 20”
42”
48”
Leaf Leaf
Impressive “great tables” such as the one pictured were rare in early 18th Century New England.
More common were the much smaller Queen Anne gateleg tables. The lack of large, banquet-size
tables was most likely due to the small size of mid-18th Century dining rooms. Later in the Federal
period when impressive mansions became more common, large banquet tables also became more
prevalent. Our table is pattered after a table which is attributed to Connecticut. It is available
without leaves or with two leaves, and can be special ordered with a third pedestal section.
Our carved Chippendale Chair reveals exquisite
craftsmanship in the details of the shell-carved crest rail.
This arm chair is designed to go with our Chippendale
side chair. Dimensionally, it is somewhat larger than the
side chair. The arms terminate in carved knuckles. Like the
side chair, we make our arm chair in two styles; one with a
pierced splat and a shell-carved crest rail; the second with a
solid splat and plain crest rail. The chair is supplied with a
slip seat covered in muslin.
Height 39” Width 26 1/2” Depth 21”
Triple Pedestal Table Height 29” Width 48” Length 126” Length (2 leaves) 166”
Double Pedestal Table Height 29” Width 48” Length 84” Length (2 leaves) 124”
Chippendale Side Chair circa 1780-1790
Small Double Pedestal Table Height 29” Width 42” Length 64” Length (2 leaves) 100”
This side chair is characteristic of those made in Rhode
Island in the latter part of the 18th Century when
Chippendale chairs were made in a seemingly endless variety
of designs. We make our chair in two basic styles-- one with
a pierced splat and shell-carved crest rail; the second with a
solid splat and plain crest rail. The chair is supplied with a
slip seat covered in muslin.
Height 38” Width 20 1/2” Depth 19”
When purchasing one of our Chippendale chairs, ask one of
our Eldred Wheeler sales representatives about the selection of
upholstery fabrics.
Matching Arm Chairs Available
Matching Side Chairs Available
Queen Anne Arm Chair circa 1740-1760
Queen Anne arm chairs of New England origin are
extremely rare. This chair is one of the best in terms
of its form. The cabriole legs are carefully modeled
and end in crisp wafer pad feet. The spooned back and
violin-shaped splat produce a series of curves which are
in keeping with the flow of the rest of the chair. The
entire chair is of mortise and tenon construction. The
chair is supplied with a slip seat covered in muslin.
Height 41 1/2” Width 28” Depth 21”
Queen Anne Side Chair circa 1740-1760
This Queen Anne chair is meant to be a
companion piece to our arm chair. It has the
same design features, but is somewhat smaller
overall. The serpentine curve of the stiles makes
this an exceptionally comfortable chair. The chair
is supplied with a slip seat covered in muslin.
Height 40” Width 21 1/2” Depth 19”
When purchasing one of our Queen Anne
chairs, ask one of our Eldred Wheeler
sales representatives about the selection
of upholstery fabrics.
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
57
Breakfast Tables
Queen Anne Breakfast Table circa 1730-1760
Queen Anne dropleaf tables under 30 inches in diameter are exceedingly rare
and have long been prized by collectors. This example is typical of those made in
northern Connecticut. It is especially fine with a cut skirt and delicate cabriole
legs. Our table is constructed in the same fashion as the original, with a dovetail
frame and each top panel consisting of only one board.
Height 27 1/2” Width open 29 1/2” Width closed 9” Depth 27 3/4”
Small Tripod Breakfast Table circa 1750-1770
Tripod tables were commonly found throughout New England in colonial times.
The stability of the three-leg design of these tables was most desirable for colonial
floors. Commonly, these tables were of small dimensions, rarely with tops greater
than 36 inches in diameter. Unlike the large- and medium-size tripod breakfast
tables, this table is small enough not to necessitate a tilt-top for storage.
Height 29” Diameter 34”
Tilt-Top Breakfast Table circa 1750-1770
These larger tripod tables generally had a practical tilt-top feature so they could
be put aside for storage. We offer this piece in two sizes.
Large Tripod Height 29” Diameter 48”
Medium Tripod Height 29” Diameter 42”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Country Dining
Country-Style Tables and Chairs
Country-Style Tables
William and Mary table shown with company boards
William and Mary Dining Table circa 1750-1760
14” table extensions (company boards) for the William and Mary
Dining Table are available upon request at an additional charge.
Stretcher-based dining tables of various sizes were very popular
throughout New England in the early-to-mid 18th Century. The
smaller ones were often referred to as tavern tables and were used
throughout most colonial dwellings. Larger tables, such as ours,
were most often found in the kitchen or keeping rooms. Our table
provides ample space to accommodate eight people and can be
ordered in custom sizes upon request.
Trestle Table circa 1720-1750
Trestle tables were a common functional form found throughout
New England during the first half of the 18th Century. Our table
features breadboard ends, a 36” wide top, and solid “trestle and post”
construction. Designed with usability in mind, our model is perfect
for a working kitchen.
Height 29 1/2” Width 36” Length 72”
Height 29” Width 36” Length 74”
Height 29 1/2” Width 40” Length 62”
Height 29” Width 36” Length 58”
Farmer’s Table circa 1750-1760
The Farmer’s Table differs from the William and Mary Table by the
use of more substantial legs with bold ball turnings and the absence
of a stretcher base. Just like the originals, pegged and mortised
breadboard ends expand and contract with the seasons to stabilize
the wide solid boards on the top.
Height 29” Width 36” Length 72”
Height 29” Width 40” Length 62”
Our informal country dining tables featured in this section are popular styles from 18th Century
New England. These traditional-style tables are hand-planed and use wide, premium-select boards
to authenticate the true originals. We have six styles available to choose from-- William and Mary
Dining Table, Porringer Dining Table, Trestle Table, Harvest Table, Nantucket Ship’s Table, and
the Oval Dining Table. And to complement your choice of dining table, you may want to select a
set of Windsor chairs. The handcrafted continuous arm and bow back Windsors are available with
either a natural stain or any of the traditional milk paint colors. Many additional Windsor styles,
including Writing Arms and Settees, are available.
Construction Note: Two of our country dining tables (the Trestle Table and the William and Mary Dining Table) utilize
“Breadboard” ends. The purpose of these ends is to keep the tabletop flat, and to provide a finished appearance. Our craftsmen
mortise and tenon the ends to the tabletop, with the grain running in opposite directions.
The expansion and contraction tendencies of the tabletop throughout the seasons are normal for solid wood construction. This
means that the center panel of the table will expand beyond the length of the breadboard ends in the humid months, and will
contract inside the breadboard ends in the dry months. Again, this is a normal condition of this type of construction
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Harvest Table circa 1790-1810
Long drop-leaf tables have often been called harvest tables, a term most likely derived from the Early
American tradition of preparing a large dinner after a successful harvest. We make a basic New England
Hepplewhite harvest table with delicately tapered legs and single-board drop leaves. Each leaf is held upright
by two wooden supports protruding from the frame. Our harvest table is available in two sizes.
Height 29” Width closed 20 1/2” Width open 41 1/2” Length 74”
Height 29” Width closed 20 1/2” Width open 41 1/2” Length 58”
Summer (expansion)
Winter (contraction)
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
61
Country-Style Tables
Porringer Dining Table circa 1740-1770
This Queen Anne Porringer Top Dining Table shows the refined modeling
characteristics of the group found in the Newport, Rhode Island area during this
period. The turned legs feature subtle tapering and crisp pads. The top features the
thin chamfered edge for which fine porringer top tables are known.
Height 30” Width 36” Length 72”
Nantucket Ship’s Table circa 1730-1750
This particular ship’s table has its origin on Nantucket, and is similar to those
found on tall sailing ships and whalers in early 18th Century New England.
Space was a commodity onboard these ships, as it is so often today, so furniture
was fashioned to conserve space while providing maximum efficiency. A luxury
such as this table would have most likely been found in the captain’s quarters.
Height 29” Width closed 10” Width open 50 1/2” Length 42”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
“To do a common thing, uncommonly well,
brings success.”
- Henry John Heinz
Windsor
C
1760 Continuous
Arm Settee
abinetmakers in 18th Century
America were exceptionally innovative and
often succeeded in elevating utilitarian
household
items to a
higher status.
One such
article was the
humble
Windsor chair.
Little has been
written about
the origin of the Windsors; however,
indications are that the name evolved after King George I saw such a
chair in a peasant’s cottage in Windsor, England. Although Windsor chairs evolved
from rural England, they obtained their highest level of development in Colonial
America. As early as 1725, Comb Back “great Windsors” were appearing in and
about the Philadelphia area. Windsor chair manufacturing gradually spread to other
areas of Colonial America, with their greatest popularity occurring at the end of the
18th Century.
It was our love of New England country
furniture that led us to have these chairs made
to our specifications by talented craftsmen in
our area. These chairs are constructed in the
same fashion and using similar materials as
18th Century
chairs. The bent
backs are made
from oak which
Sack Back
Arm Chair
has been split
from straight
grain stock. It is steamed and
allowed to dry for several weeks in a contoured
Pennsylvania
Writing Arm
form. All spindles are hand-hewn from split ash.
The spindles are secured to the back using the
18th Century technique of “bore and wedge” fastening. This labor-intensive method
assures maximum strength while preserving the light, delicate feel so characteristic of a
Windsor chair. The seat is usually two boards of New England pine. Maple is used for
all turnings.
We believe that these chairs will satisfy the aesthetic criteria of even the most
discerning antique Windsor chair collector. Our chairs may be purchased in
large quantities, which makes them especially attractive for inns, lodges, or
period restorations.
Of all the various Windsor forms, we believe the Continuous
Arm and Bow Back side chairs are two of the most pleasing. The delicate form, which is
characteristic of colonial Windsor, is expressed in the gentle curves and crisp turnings.
In addition to the standard bow side chair and continuous arm
Windsor chairs, Eldred Wheeler offers dozens of other historic
styles and designs, including settees, stools, writing arms, and
children’s versions (Windsor- and Pennsylvania-style High and
Child’s Chairs).
Continuous Arm Windsor Chair circa 1770-1780
Bow Back, Brace-Back Windsor Chair circa 1770-1780
Built in the same manner as our continuous arm chair, this side chair possesses excellent proportion found only in
the best New England Windsors. The bow for the chair back is split from straight grained oak and steamed to make it
flexible. It is then bent around a frame and allowed to dry for several weeks, producing a component which is pliant and
amazingly strong.
Height 37” Width 22” Depth 20”
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Crafted for Eldred Wheeler
Our chairs are finished to give the appearance of an old chair. They are available with
either a natural stain or any of the traditional milk paint colors. When painted, we
use a toner which gives the appearance of “old” paint. “Wear marks” are added
where appropriate.
Windsor chairs were “common” chairs and were used extensively in keeping rooms
or meeting houses. Made from local woods with unsophisticated tools, these “stick
chairs” were made in great numbers throughout all regions of the colonies. As time
passed, regional variations became common until there were literally hundreds of
varieties of Windsor chairs. Because Windsors were made from a variety of woods
(pine, maple, oak, hickory, and ash), they were most often painted.
The paint eliminated the discontinuity of the mixed woods and
blended the chair components into a harmonious unit. Colors
most commonly used included dark green, black, red, and Spanish
brown.
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Chairs
Windsor chairs were made in great numbers throughout Colonial New England, but very few reached the degree of fluid
proportion found in our edition. The overall appearance is one of delicate lightness, yet the materials and the construction
techniques produce a chair which is amazingly sturdy. Our Windsor chair has a hand-scooped, two-board pine seat, oak
back and spindles, and maple turnings. The legs and spindles are attached using “bore and wedge” joints.
Height 37” Width 22” Depth 20”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
65
Sideboards
Huntboards, Sideboards, Servers
Dunlap Sideboard circa 1795-1810
Experts cannot agree upon whether the Dunlap family actually built
the sideboard like this one pictured or if it was really the base to a
highboy that was being built in phases. Because of the high cost of early
highboys, many families ordered the lower section as a bureau, with the
idea of having the cabinetmaker finish the top at a later date. The top
of our piece is very characteristic of tops on other Dunlap chests. The
top drawer, simulated to look like three, indicates that this piece was
used as a server. Our sideboard, with deep drawers and cabriole legs,
works well as a serving piece and provides storage for dining utensils.
Height 36” Width 39 1/4” Depth 19 3/4”
Country Hepplewhite Sideboard circa 1790
“Six-leg” sideboards of this design were seen in rural areas of New England
throughout the latter part of the 18th Century. While the tapered legs and
stamped brass drawer pulls are characteristic of the Federal period, the
overall simplicity of this piece suggests an informal origin.
Height 39” Width 63 3/4” Depth 21 1/2”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
67
Huntboards
Servers
Connecticut Server circa 1760-1780
The Queen Anne period was most noted for the introduction of the cabriole
leg. This graceful curve was used with paramount success throughout New
England. Though highboys were sometimes damaged beyond repair, the owner
would have the piece converted into a chest by adding a base and feet, or it
would be converted into a serving piece by adding a finished top to the base.
Our server reflects the Old New England saying of “waste not, want not.”
Height 35 1/2” Width 38” Depth 20”
Four-Drawer Huntboard circa 1790-1810
Height 38 3/4” Width 21 1/2” Length 44”
Three-Drawer Country Hepplewhite Server circa 1790-1810
This practical piece is typical of many serving tables produced throughout
New England toward the end of the 18th Century. It exemplifies the
pure functionality of many pieces made by rural cabinetmakers. The deep
drawers were used to store serving pieces in country homes. Just below
the three drawers is a fine tiger maple inlay (on cherry cases only), which
enhances the simple lines of the piece. We have chosen to make both a twodrawer server and a three-drawer server.
Height 36 1/2” Width 65 3/4” Depth 20 1/4”
Six-Drawer Huntboard circa 1790-1810
Huntboards originated in the southern colonies and were used as serving pieces for informal gatherings. This accounts for their simple,
unembellished design. While the design remains extremely simple, the overall piece has been carefully proportioned with a subtle touch
of thin tiger maple inlay below the lower drawers. Since contrasting wood design was popular in the Federal period, we offer this piece
in tiger maple, cherry, and a combination cherry with contrasting tiger maple drawers (pictured below). These pieces were also made
longer for larger households, so we offer our huntboards in two sizes.
Two-Drawer Country Hepplewhite Server circa 1790-1810
Height 36 1/2” Width 46 1/4” Depth 20 1/4”
Height 38 3/4” Width 21 1/2” Length 63 1/2”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
69
Lowboys
Lowboys
Connecticut Lowboy circa 1760-1780
Queen Anne lowboys are popular American antique forms. However, they
were made in lesser quantities than the more popular highboy. Originally
designed as dressing tables, these pieces were a luxury for most colonial
homesteads. Its excellent proportion, handsomely-carved fan, and deeply
scrolled skirt are all indications of first-rate cabinetry.
Height 30 1/2” Width 33 1/4” Depth 20”
Slate-Top Lowboy circa 1750-1770
This rare lowboy is a transitional piece, showing the characteristics of the
William and Mary period as well as the Queen Anne period. The slate
inlay and the drawer headings are reminiscent of early William and Mary
dressing tables, while the general design is typically Queen Anne. The
original piece was painted, the case portion and legs in red and the top,
acorn drops, and drawer outlines in black. Our lowboy is constructed in
the same fashion as the original. The top is secured by four wooden pegs,
and the internal construction exhibits the earlier, wider dovetails. We offer
this lowboy in old paint or in natural stain. The color of the slate is black.
Height 30 1/2” Width 31 1/2” Depth 19 1/2”
New England Lowboy circa 1765-1775
Today, a country lowboy is difficult to find because so few were built during
the middle of the 18th Century. This piece, with its generous overhang,
scalloped skirt, and cabriole legs (without knee-blocks), most likely came
from western Massachusetts. Its small size, which is rare, makes it a very
desirable form.
Height 27 1/2” Width 31 1/2” Depth 19”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
71
An artist must have his measuring
tools not in the hand, but in the eye.
-Steve Sears
Mt. Mansfield – Cambridge, Vermont
Tea Tables
Coffee and Tea Tables
Porringer Top Tea Table circa 1720-1750
Queen Anne Tea Tables with porringer-shaped tops were especially common in colonial
Rhode Island. The original of this table came from a Pawtucket, Rhode Island family. One
particularly pleasing feature is the thin chamfered edge of the top, resulting in a lightness of
expression rarely found in porringer tables. Our table, like the original, uses only wide boards
for the top.
Height 27” Width 22” Length 33”
Small Porringer Top Tea Table Height 25” Width 17 1/2” Length 25”
Queen Anne Oval Top Tea Table circa 1720-1750
This Queen Anne table ranks as one of the best in country tea table designs. The delicately
-turned legs and shaped skirt are exemplary. To accentuate the feeling of lightness, the top
has been chamfered to less than one-half inch at the edge. Our table includes all of the
features found in the original; the top is composed of only wide boards, and the wooden pegs
securing the mortise and tenon joints may be seen protruding on the underside of the frame.
Height 27” Width 25 1/4” Length 31 1/2”
Small Queen Anne Oval Top Tea Table Height 25” Width 18 1/2” Length 23 1/2”
Queen Anne Cookie Corner Tea Table circa 1720-1750
This unusual notched corner table originates from New Hampshire. The design of the
original is one of the finest we have seen in New England. The top is chamfered to a delicate
edge, and the skirt and legs are of the highest order. Our edition is constructed exactly like
the original, and the top is comprised of only wide boards.
Height 27” Width 21 1/4” Length 29 1/4”
Small Queen Anne Cookie Corner Tea Table Height 25” Width 18 3/4” Length 23 1/2”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
75
Tea Tables
Coffee Tables
William and Mary Coffee Table
circa 1750-1760
Stretcher-based tavern tables were very popular
throughout New England in the early- to mid-18th
Century and were utilized in a variety of different
rooms throughout the colonial dwelling. These tables
eventually evolved as traditional coffee tables. As
was customary, this table is standard with a maple
or cherry top and a traditional milk paint base. Also
offered all stained or painted.
Nantucket Tea Table circa 1750-1770
Height 19” Width 48” Depth 24”
Molded-top Queen Anne tea tables are one of the most sought
after of New England antiques. They represent the ultimate
integration of curve and design. Our example is one of the best
New England forms. Its carved cabriole legs and delicatelyscrolled skirt add symmetry to this American classic. The rare
pull-out candleslides at each end also add to its desirability.
Height 26 1/4” Width 28” Depth 18”
William and Mary Square Coffee Table
circa 1750-1760
This square version of the stretcher-based tavern table offers a
drawer cut into the apron. The top features a pegged breadboard
design, and the refined turnings possess excellent proportion.
Height 19” Width 36” Depth 36”
Porringer Coffee Table circa 1740-1760
The Porringer Top coffee table is a design that is
distinctive to the Newport and Providence areas of
Rhode Island. Most tables with this type of top were tea
tables, but the style appeared on tables of many sizes.
We have chosen to offer a coffee table in this design.
One particularly pleasing feature is the thin chamfered
edge of the top, resulting in a lightness of expression
rarely found in porringer tables.
Height 19” Width 48” Depth 23 1/4”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
77
End Tables
End Tables
Chippendale End Table circa 1780-1790
Our end tables are adaptations of several small tables or breakfast tables. Breakfast
tables usually were constructed with two drop leaves, while small tables served
multiple purposes and had an attached top with a small drawer. Our Chippendale
and Queen Anne End Tables combine the best elements of each and are designed
to complement any upholstered piece in the home.
Height 26 1/4” Width 19” Depth 26 3/4”
Queen Anne End Table circa 1750-1780
The simple clean lines of our top and the compact nature of the case flow naturally
into the graceful lines of the apron, supported by delicate but sturdy cabriole legs.
Our handcrafted Queen Anne End Table may serve as an end table or hallway table.
Height 26” Width 19” Depth 26 3/4”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Candlestands
Candlestands
Tilt-Top Candlestand circa 1790-1800
The original of this delicate candlestand is from New Hampshire. Tilt-top
tables were standard items in New England homes since they could be used
anywhere in a room. The candlestand could be used as a tea table or placed
against a wall with its top up. The top of our table is chamfered with cut
corners about a finely-turned hexagon column. Subtly-shaped legs terminate
in a spade foot.
Height 29” Width 13 1/4” Depth of Top 18 1/2”
Spider Leg Candlestand circa 1790-1800
This particularly handsome example of a New Hampshire spider leg
candlestand became popular around the end of the 18th Century. The tripod
stand has a finely tuned shaft, and the desirable top features characteristic
Hepplewhite rounded corners. Mortise and tenon attachment of the wellformed spider feet typifies furniture crafted by the Dunlap family.
Height 28 1/2” Width 16 1/2” Depth 16 1/2”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Mirrors
William and Mary Mirror circa 1700-1750
Mirrors, Quilt Rack, Pipebox
The William and Mary mirror was a predecessor of the later
Queen Anne and Chippendale mirrors. This piece is made with
an attractive “ogee” frame and reflects simple distinctiveness.
The size is appropriate for hallways, above chests or for any area
where subtle decoration is required. All of the surfaces are handfinished and the mirror back is covered with a thin piece of pine.
Height 28” Width 22”
Courting Mirror circa 1730-1770
The courting mirror, as indicated by its name, was
traditionally given to a young girl by an inspired suitor. The
process of producing mirror glass involved a blown cylinder
of glass, which was split opened and flattened on stone,
then polished and silvered by floating mercury over tin foil.
Beacuse of the limitations in this process, mirrors were either
relatively small or made up of two or more plates. A great deal
of attention was given to the detail of our mirror which would
indicate deep love and affection for the intended recipient.
Chippendale Mirror circa 1770-1780
These country Chippendale mirrors were made in New England
during the last quarter of the 18th Century. Since mirror glass
was very expensive, it was relatively uncommon to find native
crafted mirrors of this size. Our mirror includes the same
detailed scrollings as the original. The back of the scroll work is
appropriately blocked, and the mirror back is covered with a thin
piece of pine.
Large Chippendale Mirror
Small Chippendale Mirror
Height 16” Width 8”
Height 37” Width 20”
Height 24” Width 15”
Tiger Maple Pipe Box circa 1770-1780
Almost every public building in colonial New England
contained at least one pipe box. These “little boxes with
drawers” were used to hold long clay pipes. Traditionally, a
guest would “light up” one of several pipes, using the flint
found in the drawer. After his smoke, he would break off the
pipe tip and return the pipe to the box – ready for another
guest. Most New England pipe boxes were crude, functional
affairs. The original of this tiger maple example, however,
was a rare exception. The carved fan and detailed scrollwork
illustrate how a true craftsman could elevate a common piece
to a high level of sophistication.
Height 16 1/4” Width 4” Depth 4 1/4”
Queen Anne Mirror circa 1740-1760
Quilt Rack circa 1730-1780
Quilts were a thing of necessity in Colonial New England during the 18th Century. Designs
ranged from pure simplicity to those of extreme intricacy. Every bed was adorned with a
down-filled quilt, thus, necessitating a rack to hold these quilts while not being used. This is
our version of that rack.
Height 37” Width 30” Depth 14”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
In early America, mirror glass was difficult to obtain because it
was highly prized, especially in rural homesteads. Our Queen
Anne example is typical of those found in many New England
homes in the mid-18th Century. The crest is attached to the
frame with little wooden pegs, and the back of the mirror glass
is covered with a thin piece of pine.
Height 24” Width 12 3/4”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Queen Anne and Chippendale Stools and Benches
Queen Anne and Chippendale Stools and Benches
Queen Anne Stool circa 1740-1760
Cabriole leg stools are among the rarest of American antique furniture forms. This example is
characteristic of those made in England during the mid-18th Century. Because stools were often used
as extra chairs, their seat height is the same as that of a chair. Since these stools were originally made in
various lengths, we also offer ours in a bench form. Both the stool and the bench are supplied with a slip
seat covered in muslin.
Height 17 1/2” Width 15” Length 19”
Queen Anne Bench
Height 17 1/2” Width 15” Length 32”
Chippendale Stool
Height 17 1/2” Width 16” Length 19 1/2”
Chippendale Bench circa 1770-1780
Our Chippendale bench and stool are characteristics of those made
in New England during the mid to late 18th Century. These two
pieces feature two short side stretchers and a longer center stretcher
which completes the form.
Height 17 1/2” Width 16” Length 32”
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
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Nightstands
Nightstands
Sheraton Nightstand without Shelf circa 1795-1810
Two-Drawer Sheraton Nightstand circa 1795-1810
Similar to its counterpart shown left, but without a breadboard
shelf, our Sheraton Nightstand features a single beaded drawer
and simple turned legs.
This nightstand has the same turned Sheraton style leg as our
three other Sheraton Nightstand offerings. This piece, however,
has two beaded edge drawers, one over the other. The height is
4 1/2” higher than other nightstands, and 2” wider across the front.
Available in tiger maple or cherry.
Height 28 7/8” Width 20” Depth 16 7/8”
Height 32” Width 20” Depth 17”
Country Hepplewhite Nightstand circa 1790-1795
Sheraton Nightstand with Shelf circa 1795-1810
During the end of the 18th Century, this simple Hepplewhite
nightstand design was made in great quantities throughout the
rural parts of New York. As was the case with the early pieces, this
nightstand has a refined cockbeaded edge around the drawer, and
is available with either a tiger or bird’s eye maple drawer.
Nightstands with simple turned legs were made in considerable
quantities throughout New England during the late 18th and
early 19th Century. Our handcrafted Sheraton Nightstand
features a single beaded drawer and a rare “breadboard” shelf
with a beaded skirt.
Height 27 1/2” Width 18 3/4” Depth 17 3/4”
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Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Height 28 7/8” Width 20” Depth 16 7/8”
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Eldred Wheeler
New England Bed Collection
New England
Federal headboard
Cannonball headboard
Cannonball Bed circa 1720-1760
Our Cannonball Bed features a wide turned post available in tiger
maple or cherry wood. This post features the classic turned Cannonball
style produced by the late 18th and early 19th Century New England
Cabinetmakers. We offer a special extended headboard with a
handcarved shell.
Pine Tree Top Bed circa 1780-1800
This informal country bed is very popular in our cherry natural stain. The post
features a finely proportioned pine tree ring turning. This bed is an excellent
choice for either traditional or contemporary dressings. Popular in pairs or
singles for children’s rooms. The New England Federal Headboard is featured
in the above photo.
Detail of wide turned post
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Available in Cherry or Tiger Maple.
Post height is 56.5”. Height from
floor to top of rail is 17”.
Available in Cherry and Tiger Maple.
Post height is 47 1/4”. Height from
floor to top of rail is 17”.
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This lovely design is wonderful in a children’s room, as shown here, as a
larger bed. Shown in Cherry with the New England Federal Headboard.
Post Height is 47 1/2”. Footboard option available.
Urn Post Bed circa 1800-1825
Our Urn Post Bed is based on a folding bed made in the Connecticut River
Valley region of central Massachusetts during the first quarter of the 19th
Century. Although there is an impulse to date this bed to a much earlier period,
the sophisticated urns on our headposts suggest a post-revolution design.
Acorn Bed circa 1800-1840
The Acorn Bed is a New England country style bed that features a handturned post topped by an acorn. The acorn style of bed was commonly
produced by the more rural craftsmen in the early 1800s. This bed will work
well in a variety of relaxed bedroom themes. The Connecticut River Valley
Headboard is featured in the above photo.
Trundle Bed circa 1700-1800
Connecticut River Valley headboard
Available in Cherry and Tiger Maple.
Post height is 65”. Height from floor
to top of rail is 17”.
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In the early colonial homes, space was often at a
premium, and the use of trundle beds permitted one
bed to be stored under another. The tiny bed could
be rolled out from under the larger bed each night for
use. Our Trundle Bed is very popular as a child’s bed
or as an informal guest bed. The bed features slats that
eliminate the need for a box spring and is generally
used with a futon-style mattress.
Available in Cherry and Tiger
Maple. Bed requires a 12” high
x 75” long storage clearance
below the larger bed.
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Sheraton Field Bed
circa 1780-1820
The design of turned beds, which were
introduced towards the end of the 8th
Century, is largely attributed to Thomas
Sheraton and George Hepplewhite, two
English craftsmen who published pattern
books during the second half of the 18th
Century. Their books, which made their
way to colonial America, acted as design
references for the many cabinetmakers
throughout New England and beyond.
Our Sheraton Field Bed was designed
by Thomas Sheraton as a “portable bed”
which could easily be set up or taken
apart. Each post is hand turned starting
with a solid block of wood over 3” square.
Low Pencil Post with Acorn Finials
circa 1720-1760
Low Pencil Post Beds were built throughout New England
during the 1700s. Pencil post beds typically held fabric
on a tester frame hiding the posts. Our handcrafted low
pencil post bed displays the slender tapered posts capped
by a finely-turned acorn finial. The New England Federal
Headboard is pictured in this photo.
Either Sheraton bed
post may be reeded.
This single bed features a Connecticut River Valley
Headboard and a bow canopy. Post Height is 70 1/4”.
Height from floor to the top of rail is 17”
Available in
Cherry. Post height
is 72”. Height from
floor to top of rail is 17”.
Sheraton Tall Bed
circa 1780-1820
Like our Sheraton Field Bed, this “tall
post” bed is based on a Thomas Sheraton
design. Unlike our Pencil Post Bed from
an earlier period, this bed has greater
elements of style, grace, and proportion.
After all, these posts were meant to be
seen, and were not simply functional posts
designed to hold drapery. The later period
accounts for the greater sophistication.
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The bed pictured is a double and features a Connecticut River Valley Headboard.
Post height is 81 3/8”. Height from floor to the top of rail is 17”.
Our most popular
high style bed,
the Sheraton Tall
Bed captures the
dramatic beauty of
a late 18th Century
turned bed. Original
Sheraton Tall Beds,
if they can be found,
are very expensive.
Low Bed circa 1750-1780
Our Low Post Bed is an excellent example of a
New England country style design found in rural
homes during the second half of the 18th Century.
The linesof the bed are simple; more functional than
decorative. The straight Chippendale legs are topped
with well proportioned ball turnings. The New England
Federal Headboard is pictured in this photo.
Most often, we find
this bed is purchased
in the single size, as
part of a pair, for a
guest bedroom, or a
child’s room.
The bed pictured is a single and the headboard style is New England Federal.
Post height 41.5”. Height from floor to top rail is 17”.
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Headboards and Footboard Styles
Headboards for Pencil Post Bed, Sheraton Field Bed and Sheraton Tall Bed (no footboards)
18”
18”
Deerfield
New England Federal
18”
18”
18”
Country Hepplewhite
Connecticut River Valley
18”
Acorn
18”
New England Country
Country Cannonball
Optional designs for Footboards for Low Post Bed and Urn Post Bed
Footboards
Headboards
18”
8 1/4”
Deerfield
18”
8 1/4”
Country Hepplewhite
18”
8 1/4”
New England Country
18”
8 1/4”
New England Federal
This queen size bed is pictured in tiger maple and has fully figured Connecticut River Valley Headboard.
Post Height is 81”. Height from floor to top of rail is 17”. The Connecticut River Valley Headboard is featured in this photo.
18”
Connecticut River Valley
Pencil Post Bed circa 1750-1780
There is some variation in size among manufacturers of
box springs and mattresses. Our beds are designed to
accommodate the following sizes of box springs:
Pencil Post Beds were made throughout New England during the second half
of the 18th Century. Surprisingly, the posts have a functional origin. They were
used to support fabric coverlets, which provided privacy and added warmth.
Most often the posts were never seen. Our bed is based on an 18th Century post
we found in a New England attic. The carved “lamb’s tongue” decorations and
the subtle taper of the chamfered posts are traditional design characteristics. Our
Pencil Post Bed is one of our popular beds and is used in traditional, as well as
more contemporary settings.
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Single
Double
Queen
King
California King
Bedroom photographs taken in Morgan Hall Homestead, restored by Benjamin S. Clark
and Associates of Norwell, MA, restores of antique homes and historic buildings.
36” - 39”
51” - 54”
57 1/2” - 60 1/2”
74” - 77”
74” - 77”
All tall post beds come with a straight tester except the Sheraton
Field, which has the option of the bow or serpentinetester only.
Please specify when ordering.
73” - 76”
73” - 76”
78” - 81”
78” - 81”
81” - 84”
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Custom Cabinetry
About our Contruction...
Our beds feature the exact mortise and tenon joinery at all rail and headboard join locations used during the colonial era. We then
use custom-cast bed bolts that are tightened into nuts sunk into the rail under solid wood bungs, to provide a bed of enduring
strength. The bed may also be disassembled and reassembled easily due to the simplicity of this construction. The mattress
and boxspring sit on angle irons attached to the rails of the bed. You may order different length angle irons to adjust the height
of your mattress and boxspring. This may be important if you are going to use an overstuffed mattress set and wish to see the
maximum amount of the headboard. In addition to the irons, all queen and king beds receive a support that runs underneath the
bed from head-rail to foot-rail and sits on a support block.
Canopy “Tester” Frame will carry
either solid fabric or fishnet canopies.
You may purchase nearly any Eldred Wheeler
bed with a hand-carved headboard. This feature,
which was often added to the standard beds of
the era, is available at an additional small cost.
The mattress and
boxspring sit
on angle irons
attached to the rails
of the bed. You
may order different
length angle irons
to adjust the height
of your mattress
and boxspring.
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Custom-cast bed bolts are tightened into nuts and
sunk into the rails under solid wood bungs to provide
additional strength.
Mortise and tenon joinery at
all rail and headboard locations
Dressing the bed below the rail...
Most owners choose to use a dust ruffle underneath the rail on our beds, on the two sides and the front of the
bed. These may be hung on special brass curtain rod sets available for purchase at Eldred Wheeler. Assembly
instructions are included.
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arly in 2002, we decided to expand the products and services we offer to our customers to include
custom cabinetry. We believe this to be a natural extension of the expertise developed by the master
craftsmen at Eldred Wheeler over the past thirty two years, and something that a good number of our
customers have requested in the past. It would seem that an understanding of the components of fine
cabinetmaking makes it difficult to accept less, especially in the kitchen where so much of our daily
activity is centered. Large or small each cabinetry job we undertake recieves the ultimate care and
attention to detail; cabinetry that is as functional and efficient as it is beautiful. Our craftsmen make
sure your cabinetry meets the demands of contemporary life while reflecting the aesthetics and values
of the period that inspired it.
Inquire with Eldred Wheeler for a quote.
Custom Cabinetry
Custom Cabinetry
The goal of our cabinetry venture is to offer the same
traditional materials and construction methods as we use
when handcrafting our 18th century reproduction furniture.
The wide Cherry and tiger maple boards, mortise and tenon
joinery and dove-tailed drawers are important elements of
our fine cabinetry, and essential in conveying the warmth and
purity of design inherent in colonial American craftsmanship.
In addition to this we offer various options including hand
carved shell and fan patterns, bracket or ogee feet, fluted
columns and inlay or hand painted designs.
Solid Wood Face Frames in
Tiger Maple, Maple or Cherry
Durable Furniture-Quality
Lacquer Finish
Virtually Indestructible
Joinery Methods
Hand-Carved Accents Available
Our famous hand-carved shell adds period style
Bracket feet enhance the
cabinet design.
Eldred Wheeler’s highly-renowned finishes start with our unique water-based
stain, combined with a light coating of natural shellac. A proprietary toner mix
and kitchen cabinetry-grade lacquers are then applied. These are hand-rubbed
and glazed to achieve the warmth and patina of antiques and provide the everyday
protection needed in harsh environments of a kitchen or bath vanity.
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Hardware includes the finest
undermount concealed full extension
drawer slides. Hinges are concealed
and adjustable. For visible hardware
we recommend solid brass, but
customer may select an alternative.
An Eldred Wheeler Kitchen is an investment in lasting value.
Because we sell our cabinetry direct to our customers our
kitchens are affordable and built with supierior materials and
craftsmanship. Schould you wish to carry the look into other
areas of your home, we have the ability to create coordinating
wall units, vanities, built-in entertainment centers, bookcases,
raised panel walls, wainscotting and more. We will be there every
step of the way working within your requirements and schedule,
to ensure that your cabinetry reflects all that you envision.
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
Eldred Wheeler
Handcrafted 18th Century American Furniture
101
eldred wheeler principles
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• Each piece is crafted using traditional construction techniques, such as dovetail and mortise & tendon joinery. These methods
• As was the case in 18th century America, wide boards of native hardwoods and softwoods are used. While this wide stock was
plentiful in colonial times, it is becoming increasingly scarce today. However, it is a key component in creating lasting value and
we spend a great deal of effort sourcing this valuable natural resource.
• Brass hardware was very expensive for colonial cabinetmakers, since it required special skills to cast and considerable handwork to
finish. The same hold true today for the handmade hardware we use on our pieces, but we feel the expense is not only worth it,
but also essential to creating the level of quality we seek for each of our pieces.
• Our unique finishing process is something we developed over years of experimentation. It strives to replicate the natural aging
process. This not only involves the subtle darkening of the wood but also the mellowing of the actual finish. The result is a
pleasing patina, which closely matches that of well maintained antiques.
elebrate the independent spirit, vitality, and colonial work ethic represented in 18th century American country
high-style furniture forms.
Eighteenth century cabinetmakers worked in a vastly different environment from furniture manufactures today. Cabinetmaking was
viewed as a prestigious trade and colonial cabinetmakers took great pride in their work. Today, we might view colonial cabinetmakers
more as artisans making “furniture sculptures” rather than woodworkers or carpenters. They typically knew their customers and gave
careful consideration to every aspect of crafting a piece. While the overall design theme was dictated by current fashion, the design
specifics and execution of each piece was left to the cabinetmaker. This is where artistry, craftsmanship, and functionality merged
to create some true masterpieces of American art. Some pieces were the culmination of a lifetime of design refinement, such as the
sophisticated block-and-shell secretaries made by the Goddards and Townsends of Newport, Rhode Island. While other less formal
pieces seem more spontaneous - almost whimsical, for example the elaborate country-high style highboys made by the Dunlaps in
New Hampshire or the innovative chest-on-chests created by Samuel Loomis in Colchester, Connecticut.
Eldred Wheeler is dedicated to carrying on the independent spirit, vitality, and work ethic of colonial cabinetmakers. Following in
their footsteps in today’s mass-production oriented world is not always easy. It requires a strong commitment to create pieces of lasting
value. In some cases this is accomplished by crafting a reproduction of an especially desirable antique, while in other cases it involves
transposing one’s self back in time and accurately designing a piece that could have been created not only at that time but also in a
particular area. When non-traditional items are needed, such as a coffee table or entertainment center, we might use bit a more design
latitude. However, irrespective of the form, we remain committed to crafting pieces that would make our colonial predecessors proud.
Each Eldred Wheeler pieces incorporates traditional mortise & tendon and dovetail construction, wide boards of American hardwoods,
hand worked hardware, and a unique finish that achieves the patina of a well maintained antique.
Eldred Wheeler was largely created as a result of the founders’ love of 18th century American furniture and their admiration and respect
for the colonial cabinetmakers who crafted them. That’s why from the start, they instilled in their company a culture based on the same
work ethic exhibited by these early artisans. This is reflected in the company’s core principles, which emphasize quality, value, and
customer service.
Each Eldred Wheeler craftsman takes tremendous pride in the pieces they help create. Their ultimate goal is for each Eldred Wheeler
piece to be enjoyed today as well as cherished by future generations. In this way, they not only celebrate our American heritage but
more importantly help carry it forward.
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aintain the highest standards in authentic designs, materials, workmanship, and finished products.
Antique American furniture has definitely withstood the test of time. Not only are the designs still admired but most
pieces were so well made that they look as good and are as serviceable today as when they were made over 200 years ago. They possess
“lasting quality”.
This is very different from mass-produced, modern day products. Since most modern furniture manufacturers view furniture
as a household commodity, they design around cost, ease of manufacture, and popular generic styles (e.g., colonial, traditional,
contemporary, etc.). Modern construction methods, such as dowelled joinery or the use of numerous glued
up boards, do not take into account the dynamic nature of wood. Because wood continually expands and
contracts, they are ultimately doomed to fail. Using plywood rather than solid wood largely eliminates the
problem, but it is a serious compromise in quality. The same can be said about using superficial, semi-opaque
stains and finishes to help camouflage multi-board glue-ups or poor quality base materials.
Eldred Wheeler, on the other hand, crafts its furniture with the same care and in the same manner as 18th
century cabinetmakers – for example:
• Our designs are not only accurate to the period but also to the region of manufacture. This is unlike
many modern pieces that tend to mix styles from widely varying areas and time frames.
allow for the expansion and contraction of wood throughout the different seasons and are the reason antique pieces have held
up so well over centuries of use.
As was the case in larger 18th century cabinet shops, each of our pieces is the result of a team effort. Therefore, quality control has never
been a problem, since each craftsman has considerable pride invested in his or her contribution to the finished product.
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nsure each piece is fairly priced and has lasting value so it can be enjoyed by current as well as future generations.
One of the most difficult tasks facing the founders of Eldred Wheeler was how to price their handcrafted product. Obviously,
handcrafted pieces made in limited quantities are more costly to make than mass-produced items made by the hundreds or thousands.
The easy solution would have been to simply mark-up the manufacturing cost to include an acceptable profit and in this way arrive
at retail price. Unfortunately, that approach excluded any input from the customer as to whether the piece represented a good value.
Individuals always have options when looking at home furnishings. For example they could purchase an antique if the price of the
handcrafted piece is roughly the same as the antique (some antique forms, like a simple blanket chest, are often more expensive to make
than the price of the antique) or they could purchase a mass-produced coffee table since it is purely practical and not an authentic 18th
century form anyway.
From the start, Eldred Wheeler wanted to offer its pieces at a fair price, so that they could be purchased by not only individuals
augmenting their antique furnishing but also young couples who were just starting to furnish their homes. Like buying anything with
lasting value, it is often a bit more expensive in the beginning but a much better value in the long run. This is especially true with home
furnishings where people often outgrow their initial selection of mass-produced pieces as their income and tastes mature.
Eldred Wheeler’s founders decided to offer most of their pieces at prices only modestly higher than mass-produced versions. That way
they figured they had the potential to help educate their customers on the wisdom of acquiring items of lasting value – things they
would not outgrow, but would rather cherish and pass on to their children or grandchildren.
The challenge then is to work pricing from the top-down and not the bottom-up. Therefore, in considering a new offering we first
determine what we think is a fair value. This is done by looking at the prices of other similar options, such as antiques, competing
handcrafted products, and mass-produced items. This is weighed against what we feel people think they should be spending for such a
piece. After arriving at a target price, we then determine how best to handcraft the piece so that it can
be sold at the desired price. Sometimes we can’t make everything work out and the project is shelved,
but often than not we figure a way to achieve the value we are seeking and the product finds its way in
to our catalog and stores.
Eldred Wheeler constantly strives to handcraft the finest 18th century country high-style furniture
available in America today and, over the years we have developed a loyal following of dedicated
customers. We are grateful that we have achieved our goals of creating pieces of not only lasting quality
but also lasting value. This fact has been reinforced time after time at several New England auction
galleries, where often Eldred Wheeler labeled furniture sells for more than it was originally purchased.
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reat customers like family and spend time educating them on 18th century cabinetmaking.
Eldred Wheeler was founded by individuals who were truly passionate about 18th century American furniture. They were not only
collectors but also sincerely fascinated with the era of its manufacture. Being of modest means their collecting aspirations were not
for priceless museum-level formal pieces but rather for more affordable country forms. Most often these country pieces were crafted
from native woods like cherry, maple, or birch. Early in the company’s life new products were often selected based on the founders’
personal desires. Tiger maple was the king of New England country high-style furniture and hence antique pieces in this wood were
very expensive. Therefore it should be no surprise that many of their first product offerings were in this highly desirable wood (the
prototypes typically finding their way into the founders’ homes).
As the company grew, it began to develop its own internal culture which emphasized craftsmanship, quality, and value. Increasingly
company employees became intrigued with 18th century America and the way colonial cabinetmakers not only viewed their craft but
also their customers. The concept of creating furniture with lasting value carries a significant burden -- the piece must not only satisfy
its new owner, but also be admired and desired by future generations. Design, craftsmanship, and quality are all critical to achieving
this goal.
It is not surprising that once someone becomes committed to a philosophy they tend to want to share it with others and so it is within
the Eldred Wheeler family. Employees have become zealots about their work and the furniture they create. They are on a constant
mission to educate their customers about what constitutes quality and value when it comes to furniture. As a result, there has developed
a significant following of loyal Eldred Wheeler customers. Once one appreciates the lasting value of fine handcrafted furniture, it is hard
to seriously consider purchasing mass-produced pieces, which in today’s world can almost be thought of as disposable.
We consider each customer an extension of the Eldred Wheeler family and want them to be thrilled with each item they purchase.
Our strong warranty reinforces our commitment to both our customers and our product. And our hope is that every purchaser of
Eldred Wheeler will get a lifetime of enjoyment from our pieces as well as set the stage for passing them along to the next generation.
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reate a respectful, nurturing environment for employees so they enjoy their work and take pride in their
collective accomplishments.
Eldred Wheeler is family of individuals bound by a strong commitment to handcraft the finest American 18th century furniture and
offer it to their customers at a good value. In order to fulfill this commitment, it requires contribution from people with a wide variety
of skills.
At the core of the company are the craftsmen who actually made the furniture. At Eldred Wheeler our craftsmen tend to specialize in
certain areas of cabinetmaking. For example in our rough mill, it requires years of experience and an artistic eye to select and match the
wide boards used in the construction of our pieces. On the other hand, artisans in our finish department have to continually monitor
the tone and depth of color as they apply our unique finishes.
Once a piece leaves the workshop it is the responsibility of our store employees to not only understand our customer’s needs but also to
educate them on the fine points of Eldred Wheeler furniture. Of course there are also the unsung heroes who make sure the company
functions on a daily basis. Their responsibilities range from shipping to administration to purchasing.
In the end, the creation and delivery of each of our pieces is a team effort. Every member of the Eldred Wheeler family contributes in
their own way to help make each customer’s Eldred Wheeler experience and enjoyable one.
Camaraderie is important at Eldred Wheeler. It is what motivates every member of the
team to deliver their best in everything they do. It is what makes them look forward
to coming to work each day. It’s what provides them strong individual satisfaction and
pride when a customer writes saying how much they love a piece that was just delivered.
It is a sense of belonging and accomplishment.
Our employees are our greatest asset and only through creating a respectful, nurturing
environment can they enjoy their work and take pride in their
collective accomplishments.