Rocking chairs are a common item we associate with mothers, gently rocking their babies to sleep. We also associate them with the elderly, leisurely enjoying the early morning or the sunset on their porch. Most rocking chairs are made with fine woods, and last for centuries. Rocking chairs are common family heirlooms.
Rocking chairs have become very common. They come in a variety of styles and designs. Some of them are painted and others have only the natural wood finish. You will find them for young children, backyard lawn furniture, elegant front porch features, and still used in nurseries for quiet times with your baby.
The older models of rocking chairs featured very high backs and thin slats. They were hand carved from quality wood. Antique rocking chairs are worth a great deal of money. The Gungstol and the Windsor were both introduced in the 1700’s, today they are worth thousands of dollars depending on the shape they are in as well as the type of materials used.
The early 1800’s saw the introduction of rocking chairs that didn’t have arms. They were well received by people who found them much easier to get in and out of. It was also easier to share the rocking chair with someone else. However, many people loved the first design, so the arm rocking chairs continued to be manufactured as well. Around the 1840’s, rocking chairs began being made with machines rather than by hand. The Salem rocking chair was introduced at this time, featuring a lower back.
Wicker rocking chairs were introduced in the 1860’s. They were cheaper than wooden rocking chairs, but they weren’t nearly as durable. They did sell well though because the wicker could be twisted into a variety of designs. One of the most valuable wicker rocking chairs from this era features an American flag that was weaved into the design on the back of the chair.
We have seen many varieties of rocking chairs through the years, and they are still well loved by people of all ages. You can purchase them at retail stores, furniture stores, and get them passed down to you from family members. Some manufacturers specialize in making custom, handmade rocking chairs. You can find out about them on the internet.
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