Sherri Tatum Interiors

     As a recent watcher of Little House on the Prairie, the American pioneer history is of great interest to me.  It is interesting to see how people lived in our country's early years, the way homes were built, and the types of furniture used.  The Early American design style, sometimes referred to as Colonial, has deep roots in the American history.

     Before settlers came to America, design was only heard of in Europe.  It wasn't until after settling that the Early American style came about.  It was inspired by European design, but quickly became its own style completely.  Now considered an old, historic style of furniture and design, Early American design was once new and reflective of the furniture maker and designer.  

Duncan Phyfe, The Great    

By 1675, Englishmen began making distinctive American designed furniture.  One hundred years later, a man was born who would become known as one of America's greatest furniture designers, Duncan Phyfe.  Originally from the highlands of Scotland, Phyfe was apprenticed as a cabinet maker while young, grew a successful business in New York, and owned a workshop, showroom, and warehouse.  He was a quiet, simple man who preferred to stay out of the spotlight.  Much isn't found on record about him, but he produced quality pieces like lyre-backed chairs and tripod-based tables.  He sold his furniture for high prices.  One bill on file for twelve chairs, a sofa, three tables, plus packaging totals to a high sum in early America: $800!

Locations of Early American Homes

Some early American homes can still be found in the following states: 

• Massachussetts
• New Hampshire
• Maine
• Vermont
• Rhode Island
• Connecticut
• Illinois
• New York
• New Jersey
• Pennsylvania
• Ohio
• Indiana
• Michigan
• Wisconsin

The oldest home in our country's history is the Hart House in Massachussetts.  It was built in 1640.  It is currently being used as an Inn.




Identifying the Style 


Tin trays were popular back in those days in the following styles:

• Queen Anne
• country tin
• pie crust
• rectangular
• gallery
• lace-edge 

The use of paint was not boring during those times, but rather bold in color.  The smallest amount of pigment went a long way.  Common for that style was painted plaster, woodwork, and stenciling on walls, trays, and furniture.  Contrary to what some may believe, early Americans loved to used color in their homes.

Even though the style was inspired by European design, there are identifying markers to distinguish between American and European furniture.  One example is the chest-on-chest.   Similar in style, the English chest-on-chest has cockbeaded edges while the American version has lipped drawers.

 -Sherri