Nichols and stone rocking chair markings is known for producing high-quality, durable wooden furniture since the 1800s.This is one of America’s oldest furniture manufacturers. The brand’s rocking chairs, with their classic design and craftsmanship, are particularly sought after by collectors and furniture enthusiasts.
If you’ve come across a Nichols and Stone rocking chair and are wondering about its history, age, and value, dating the chair is a great first step.
By learning how to date a Nichols and Stone rocking chair, you can uncover its origin and appreciate its unique craftsmanship.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the process of dating a Nichols and Stone rocking chair, identifying key details like company marks, style changes over time, and the materials used.
A Brief History of Nichols & Stone
Before diving into the process of dating a rocking chair, it’s helpful to understand a bit about the company. Nichols & Stone began in 1762 as a small family-run furniture business in Massachusetts. By the mid-1800s. They started producing their iconic chairs, including rocking chairs, which became a symbol of American craftsmanship.
The company grew significantly in the 20th century, gaining a reputation for creating well-made, solid wood furniture, particularly Windsor-style chairs and rockers.
Nichols and Stone chairs are known for their timeless designs, often blending traditional New England aesthetics with superior craftsmanship.
Look for the Company Mark
One of the easiest ways to date a Nichols and Stone rocking chair is by examining the company’s logo or mark. Over the years, Nichols & Stone has used different variations of their mark, which can give you an indication of the period when the chair was made.
Early Marks (1800s)
During the early years, the Nichols & Stone mark may have been more subtle or even absent on some pieces. This was common for furniture made in the late 1800s or early 1900s, especially for small, family-owned companies. If you suspect you have an early Nichols & Stone rocking chair, look for any carved insignias or handwritten markings under the seat or on the chair’s frame.
Mid-20th Century Marks
By the mid-1900s, Nichols & Stone began to stamp or brand their furniture with a more distinct mark. During this period, you might find a burned-in logo or a paper label under the seat or beneath the arms. The company’s symbol typically features the letters “N & S” or “Nichols & Stone Co.” in a circular design, often accompanied by “Gardner, Mass.” to indicate where the furniture was made.
Late 20th Century to Present
Modern Nichols & Stone rocking chairs, especially those made in the late 20th century, often have a more polished or stamped logo, sometimes featuring a more intricate design. By the 1980s and 1990s, the logo had evolved, and modern manufacturing methods made these marks clearer and more durable. Some pieces may also have additional markings, such as model numbers or dates.
Analyze the Design and Style
Nichols & Stone rocking chairs have evolved in design over the decades. By examining the style of your chair, you can gather clues about its age.
Early Windsor-Style Chairs
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Nichols & Stone rocking chairs often had a Windsor style, characterized by a high back with spindles, a curved top rail, and sturdy legs.
These chairs had a colonial aesthetic, popular in early American furniture, and were typically made from oak or maple.
If your chair features these elements, it may be from the early 20th century or even earlier. Check for hand-carved spindles or slightly irregular shapes, which may indicate that the chair was handmade rather than mass-produced.
Mid-Century Modern Influence
In the 1950s and 1960s, Nichols & Stone adapted to the mid-century modern movement, which brought sleek, minimalist designs into the furniture world.
During this time, the company’s rocking chairs may have incorporated cleaner lines, lower profiles, and less ornamentation. The use of darker wood stains and straight lines was also more common during this period.
If your Nichols & Stone rocker has a modern look with less curvature and a more streamlined silhouette, it might date from the mid-20th century.
Traditional & Contemporary Blends
Starting in the 1980s and continuing into the present day, Nichols & Stone chairs often combine traditional elements with modern touches. This means you might see classic designs but with updated features like cushioned seats, smoother finishes, or lighter wood tones. These chairs are often built with comfort in mind and may have thicker armrests or rockers.
Examine the Materials
The materials used in the construction of your rocking chair can offer important clues about its age.
Early Wood Choices
Early Nichols & Stone rocking chairs were typically made from hardwoods like oak, maple, and birch.
These woods were chosen for their durability, and chairs from the late 1800s and early 1900s often have a deep patina, indicating age.
Chairs from this era may show wear on the wood’s surface, but the solid construction should still hold strong.
Plywood and Laminate
In the mid-20th century, Nichols & Stone, like many other furniture makers, began experimenting with plywood and laminate veneers. If your chair has a laminated seat or backrest, it’s likely from the mid-century era. While these materials made furniture more affordable and easier to produce, they also marked a shift from the traditional solid wood construction of earlier pieces.
Modern Materials
Recent Nichols & Stone chairs, especially those from the 1990s onward, often incorporate more refined finishes and engineered woods. If your chair has a particularly smooth, lacquered finish, it may be of newer origin.
Check for Signs of Wear and Craftsmanship
Wear and tear can give valuable insights into the age of your rocking chair. Here’s what to look for:
Patina and Finish
Older Nichols & Stone chairs often have a natural patina—a result of the wood aging and being exposed to air and sunlight over time. If your chair has this type of aged finish, it’s likely to be an antique or at least several decades old.
Handcrafted Elements
Early Nichols & Stone rocking chairs may display handcrafting techniques, such as dovetail joints or hand-turned spindles. The attention to detail in these pieces sets them apart from later mass-produced versions. If you notice any irregularities or signs of handcraftsmanship, your chair could be a rare, older model.
Consult with an Expert
If you’re still unsure about the age of your Nichols & Stone rocking chair, consulting with a furniture expert or antique appraiser can be helpful. These professionals have the experience and knowledge to accurately assess your chair’s age, history, and value. Additionally, they can help you understand how your chair fits into the broader history of Nichols & Stone furniture.
Research the Nichols & Stone Timeline
Nichols & Stone has a long history, and the company has experienced several major milestones over the years. By aligning your chair with these historical markers, you can better estimate its age.
For instance, Nichols & Stone’s move to Gardner, Massachusetts in the 1890s signaled a shift in production, and their partnership with major retailers in the mid-20th century brought their furniture into a wider market. Researching these periods can offer additional context for dating your chair.
Conclusion
Dating a Nichols and Stone rocking chair requires a bit of detective work, but it can be a rewarding process that helps you better understand the value and history of your piece.
By examining the company’s mark, analyzing the chair’s style and materials, and looking for signs of craftsmanship and wear, you can uncover important details about its origin.
Whether you have a cherished family heirloom or a vintage find, knowing the history behind your rocking chair can enhance its sentimental and financial value.
