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American of Martinsville Desks

American

American of Martinsville is today revered as one of the finest manufacturers of mid-century modern furniture in the United States, but its beginnings were unexpectedly humble.

Well ahead of the Civil War, tobacco was a cash crop in places such as Virginia, and the plant was grown with frequency on farms in Martinsville and elsewhere. In the early 1900s, the business around tobacco was changing and the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company was expanding nationally, buying any Virginia factories in reach. Former tobacco producers Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee turned away from the business in 1906 and, with merely $30,000 in capital (and the support of local business leaders), began to manufacture bedroom furniture under the name American Furniture Company.

In the 1920s, American Furniture Company expanded its offerings from bedroom furnishings. Alongside tallboy dressers and nightstands, Witten and Keesee’s outfit began to offer a range of dining-room sets to the discerning customer. By the 1950s, the name had been changed to American of Martinsville and the brand had gained a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship as well as its variety of furniture styles (Hollywood Regency, chinoiserie).

Mass-marketed furniture meant big business in the postwar years and throughout the 20th century in Virginia, and factories owned by companies like Bassett Furniture and American of Martinsville remained busy as suburbanites bought furniture to fill the homes they were moving into.

It isn’t difficult to spot American of Martinsville’s sturdy, solid designs — the lacquered walnut nightstands, mahogany coffee tables and more have long earned the admiration of mid-century modernism enthusiasts. The company’s high profile also owes to prominent attributes that distinguish its well-made vintage furniture, such as the use of wooden slats — inspired by Scandinavian modernism — on hutches and cabinet doors, the famous brass x’s inlaid on the tops of tables and dressers and the stately stacked type of the American of Martinsville logo, which usually appears in drawer interiors. The stamp prominently features an eagle perched atop the lettering, its broad wings spread across the “American” portion.

Besides quality manufacturing, American of Martinsville is additionally recognized for having incorporated the trends of the day.

Inspired by designers like George Nakashima and Paul Laszlo, the brand was also known for innovations with wood. Merton Gershun was one of the company’s most prolific designers, and he was responsible for some of its most successful modern furniture lines using the richer, darker woods that would become emblematic of mid-century furniture. Gershun’s most popular line was reportedly Dania, with its sleek walnut credenzas fitted with stylish brass accents and large drawers. Today, American of Martinsville specializes in furniture for the healthcare and hospitality industries.

Shop a wide selection of vintage American of Martinsville mid-century modern sideboards, side tables and more on 1stDibs.

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Creator: American of Martinsville
Vintage 1960 s American of Martinsville Desk
By American of Martinsville
Located in New York, NY
Vintage 1960's American of Martinsville desk with structural details and original pulls. Nice corner details. Marked inside drawer. Two f...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Desks

Materials

Wood

Vintage 1960 s American of Martinsville Desk
Vintage 1960 s American of Martinsville Desk

Vintage 1960 s American of Martinsville Desk

$1,500
Vintage MCM Art Deco Maple Colored Desk Black Accents American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Topeka, KS
Stunning vintage mid-century modern or Art Deco with an Asian flair maple colored exotic wood desk by American of Martinsville. Beautiful condition, k...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Desks

Materials

Wood, Paint

Vintage MCM Art Deco Maple Colored Desk Black Accents American of Martinsville
Vintage MCM Art Deco Maple Colored Desk Black Accents American of Martinsville

Vintage MCM Art Deco Maple Colored Desk Black Accents American of Martinsville

$3,495
American of Martinsville Dania 3 Piece Louvered Walnut Desk Modular Unit
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Mid-Century Modern walnut low bench with modular desk and drawer cabinet designed by Merton Gerhsun for American of Martinsville's Dania line circa 60...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Desks

Materials

Brass

American of Martinsville Dania 3 Piece Louvered Walnut Desk Modular Unit
American of Martinsville Dania 3 Piece Louvered Walnut Desk Modular Unit

American of Martinsville Dania 3 Piece Louvered Walnut Desk Modular Unit

$3,360 Sale Price / set
20% Off
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Walnut Curved Top Desk
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Walnut Curved Top Desk This desk measures: 47 wide x 29 deep x 29 high, with a chair clearance...
Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Desks

Materials

Metal

Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Walnut Curved Top Desk
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Walnut Curved Top Desk

Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Walnut Curved Top Desk

$3,895
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Walnut Credenza by American of Martinsville with a Louvered Front
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Excellent original condition Mid-century Modern American of Martinsville credenza or lowboy dresser designed by Merton Gershun. Made of genuine walnut with lacquered drawer fronts an...
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Mid-Century Modern Merton L. Gershun American of Martinsville Walnut Dresser
Mid-Century Modern Merton L. Gershun American of Martinsville Walnut Dresser

Mid-Century Modern Merton L. Gershun American of Martinsville Walnut Dresser

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American of Martinsville Burl Curio Cabinets Lighted
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Previously Available Items
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By American of Martinsville
Located in Raleigh, NC
Very nice unique American made mid-century AOM ‘Dania’ desk or vanity. Made from walnut wood with a durable white top. Supported by four tapered walnut legs...
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Mid-Century American of Martinsville Desk / Vanity
Mid-Century American of Martinsville Desk / Vanity

Mid-Century American of Martinsville Desk / Vanity

H 30.25 in W 34 in D 18.5 in
Faux Bamboo Burlwood Desk
By American of Martinsville
Located in Southampton, NJ
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Hollywood Regency Faux Bamboo Lighted Secretary Desk, American of Martinsville
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Located in Oklahoma City, OK
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Metal

Hollywood Regency Faux Bamboo Lighted Secretary Desk, American of Martinsville
Hollywood Regency Faux Bamboo Lighted Secretary Desk, American of Martinsville

Hollywood Regency Faux Bamboo Lighted Secretary Desk, American of Martinsville

H 19 in W 32 in L 19 in
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Walnut Dropleaf Desk
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville mid century walnut dropleaf desk Desk measures: 44.5 wide x 23 deep x 29.5 inches high, with a chair clearance of 26.25 inches; when ex...
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Chrome

Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Walnut Dropleaf Desk
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Walnut Dropleaf Desk

Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Walnut Dropleaf Desk

H 29 in W 58 in D 23 in
Merton L. Gershun Walnut Writing Desk for American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Merton L. Gershun walnut writing desk for American of Martinsville. ________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing h...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Desks

Materials

Brass

Merton L. Gershun Walnut Writing Desk for American of Martinsville
Merton L. Gershun Walnut Writing Desk for American of Martinsville

Merton L. Gershun Walnut Writing Desk for American of Martinsville

H 29.5 in W 47 in D 29.5 in
American of Martinsville Faux Bamboo Mahogany Vanity Desk
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mid-Century Modern, desk or vanity by American of Martinsville features a faux bamboo motif on it's 3 drawers framed in black lacquer with open display shelves on the opposite side.
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Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Desks

Materials

Mahogany

American of Martinsville Faux Bamboo Mahogany Vanity Desk
American of Martinsville Faux Bamboo Mahogany Vanity Desk

American of Martinsville Faux Bamboo Mahogany Vanity Desk

H 29.75 in W 46.5 in D 22 in
Small Mid-Century Modern Desk or Vanity by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This beautiful vintage modern vanity features one drawer with a unique brass pull and slender tapered legs. Sleek design with raised and beveled ...
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1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Desks

Materials

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Small Mid-Century Modern Desk or Vanity by American of Martinsville
Small Mid-Century Modern Desk or Vanity by American of Martinsville

Small Mid-Century Modern Desk or Vanity by American of Martinsville

H 30 in W 34 in D 18.5 in
Impressive Mid-Century Modern Desk by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This stunning vintage modern desk features a unique two-tone design with multiple wood types. One of a kind case piece with amazing wood grain on the top running in different directi...
Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Desks

Materials

Brass

Impressive Mid-Century Modern Desk by American of Martinsville
Impressive Mid-Century Modern Desk by American of Martinsville

Impressive Mid-Century Modern Desk by American of Martinsville

H 30 in W 32.5 in D 25 in
Mid-Century American of Martinsville Desk
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in San Jose, CA
Mid-Century Modern Desk by American of Martinsville in walnut. This piece is from the Dania collection designed by Merton Gershun. Features two drawers with brass handles and a uniqu...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Desks

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Brass

Mid-Century American of Martinsville Desk
Mid-Century American of Martinsville Desk

Mid-Century American of Martinsville Desk

H 29.5 in W 47 in D 29.5 in

American Of Martinsville desks for sale on 1stDibs.

American of Martinsville desks are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of American of Martinsville desks, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original desks by American of Martinsville were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider desks by John Van Koert, Thomasville, and John Stuart. Prices for American of Martinsville desks can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,595 and can go as high as $4,200, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $3,695.

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Questions About American of Martinsville Desks
  • How do I identify American of Martinsville?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
    To identify American of Martinsville furniture, first look for the brand stamp, often found inside of a drawer, on the bottom of the piece or under a seat. The mark typically features the full brand name; some pieces also display an eagle logo. Another identifying characteristic of wood pieces made by the company are brass "X" inlays, often found on tabletops and the front of cabinet doors. Many mid-century American of Martinsville case goods also feature slatted or louvered doors. If you need help with the identification process, use the services of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Shop a variety of American of Martinsville furniture on 1stDibs.
  • Is American of Martinsville furniture still in business?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    American of Martinsville, which was founded in 1906, is still in business. The company now manufactures furniture for hotel and healthcare industries.
  • How much does an American of Martinsville dresser weigh?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertFebruary 7, 2024
    How much an American of Martinsville dresser weighs can vary greatly. The dimensions and materials of the piece will determine its weight. Generally, highboy dressers will be the heaviest pieces produced by the American furniture maker due to their size. Shop a diverse assortment of American of Martinsville dressers on 1stDibs.
  • What is the history of Martinsville furniture?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024
    The history of Martinsville furniture starts with the founding of the company in Martinsville, Virginia, in 1906 by Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee, a pair of former tobacco farmers. They launched their business with $30,000 in capital and began to manufacture bedroom furniture under the name American Furniture Company. In the 1920s, American Furniture Company expanded its offerings from bedroom furnishings with a range of dining room sets. By the 1950s, the company’s name had been changed to American of Martinsville, and it had gained a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship as well as a variety of furniture styles. Inspired by designers like George Nakashima and Paul László, the brand innovated with wood. Merton Gershun was one of the company's most prolific designers, and he was responsible for some of its most successful modern furniture lines using the richer, darker woods that would become emblematic of mid-century furniture. Gershun's most popular line was Dania, with its sleek walnut credenzas fitted with stylish brass accents and large drawers. Today, American of Martinsville specializes in furniture for the healthcare and hospitality industries. Find a variety of American of Martinsville furniture on 1stDibs.
  • What is American oak?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
    American oak comes from oak trees that grow in America (as opposed to in Europe). While both are pale, American oaks have a slightly pink undertone and European oaks have a honey-hued undertone.
  • What is Elgin American?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Elgin American was an American brand known for producing watches, jewelry and compacts during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Illinois Watchcase Company owned it. In 1901, the company abandoned the Elgin name due to trademark infringement claims made by the Elgin National Watch Co. Find a selection of Elgin American art, jewelry and watches on 1stDibs.
  • What color is American walnut?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
    With respect to the actual wood, the outer layer of American walnut — the sapwood — has a creamy yellow-white color whereas the inner layer — the heartwood — ranges from a golden brown to dark chocolate brown color. In more descriptive words, the color of American walnut embodies the richness of chocolate mixed with slight undertones of red wine. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage American walnut furniture.
  • What is African American quilting?
    2 Answers
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    African American quilting has roots in history during slavery and was a way for African American women to bond. The quilts themselves tell stories of history, teach lessons and are beacons of hope. Shop a collection of African American quilts from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The history of African-American quilting stretches back almost as far as the beginning of the United States itself. The craft began with slave women quilting on plantations and after emancipation, the tradition of quilting continued. Today, there are many African American quilters who are inspired by a number of different quilting traditions. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of African-American quilts from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • What is American cut glass?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
    American cut glass is a technique used for decorating glass. The period from 1771 to 1876 is considered the early period of American cut glass — later, cut glass was called Brilliant glass. This technique is associated with high labor costs and involves the work of skilled craftsmen — American cut glass is considered a luxury item and can be very valuable.
  • Is sofa American or British?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
    Sofa is both American and British. In the UK, sofa is the most commonly used term for an upholstered piece of furniture designed to seat two people or more. Americans use the word sofa as well. However, couch is the more popular name for sofas in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.
  • Who was the famous American clockmaker?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertJanuary 27, 2025
    There was actually more than one famous American clockmaker. Many people refer to Eli Terry as the “father of mass-produced clocks in the U.S.,” as he introduced the concept of interchangeable parts that made large-scale production possible. Another well-known name in the history of American clock-making is Seth Thomas, who founded the Seth Thomas Clock Company in 1813. Brothers Aaron and Simon Willard are also important figures in the field, having developed banjo clocks and tall case clocks, respectively. Shop a variety of antique and vintage clocks on 1stDibs.
  • Is there an American watch movement?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
    Yes, there is an American watch movement. In fact, there are multiple movements made in the USA. One is the Ameriquartz movement, a battery-driven quartz movement manufactured by Arizona-based maker Fine Timepiece Solutions for VAER watches. Another is the Caliber 1003 mechanical wind movement, created by Weis and produced in Nashville, Tennessee. Find a diverse assortment of watches on 1stDibs.
  • What do Americans call a sofa?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
    What Americans call a sofa varies. Often, people living in the U.S. refer to an upholstered furnishing designed to hold more than one person as a couch. However, the word sofa is also commonly used in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.
  • What is a Native American artifact?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
    A Native American artifact is any object that provides insight into the lives and history of native people in America. These items range from carved stone pipes, weapons for hunting, tools for cooking, pottery, jewelry and more. Find a collection of artifacts on 1stDibs today.
  • What are Native American drums called?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    What Native American drums are called varies by type. Ones designed to rest in the player's lap are hand drums, while instruments that hold water used primarily by the Iroquois and Yaqui are water drums. Large freestanding drums that produce loud percussive sounds are powwow drums. The Aztec and Hopi used foot drums. You'll find a range of Native American drums on 1stDibs.
  • What are Native American slippers called?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Native American slippers are called moccasins. Moccasins are characterized by their U-shaped puckered toe design and are crafted with various leathers such as sheepskin or buffalo. They may or may not be decorated with beading. Shop a collection of authentic moccasins from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • What are Native American beads called?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    It depends on which region the beads were made since they were created out of available materials found in the land around them. In the Eastern Woodlands, white and purple marine shell beads were called “wampum”. You can shop a collection of Native American beadwork from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • What are Native American blankets called?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The most well-known Native American blankets come from Navajo weaving, which are prized by collectors worldwide. Originally utilitarian, the Navajo people began creating blankets specifically for export and tourism in the 19th century. Shop a collection of Navajo blankets from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • What does the Native American headdress symbolize?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    What a Native American headdress represents depends on what tribe produced it. In general, headdresses may symbolize a person's status within the tribe or serve as a sign of bravery during battle. You'll find a selection of Native American headdresses on 1stDibs.
  • What is American Brilliant cut glass?
    2 Answers
    1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    American Brilliant cut glass is deeply and sharply cut glass known for its reflective quality and highly polished nature. This type of glass is thick, heavy, and very clear.
    Bonnin Ashley Antiques Inc
    Bonnin Ashley Antiques IncFebruary 23, 2021
    The difference between cut glass and cut crystal is the lead content along with some other criteria. "There are three primary criteria for crystal as established by the European Union in 1969: a lead content in excess of 24%, a density in excess of 2.90 and a reflective index of 1.545." "Prior to 1969 crystal glass was generally around 36% lead. However, due to concerns over lead leaching the percentage was reduced to the [unofficial} standard of 24%. Today glass with a lead content of 10% or more is considered to be crystal or “fine glass”" in the US.

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