American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

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.

Creator: American of Martinsville

1960s Vintage American of Martinsville Expandable Rolling Bar Cart

$1,440

1960s Vintage American of Martinsville Expandable Rolling Bar Cart

By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville

Located in Waxahachie, TX

Classic Mid-Century Modern walnut expandable rolling bar cart or server, Manufactured by American of Martinsville, designed by Merton L. Gershun. Expanding black laminate sliding top...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Formica, Wood

American of Martinsville Mid-Century Modern Bar Cart or Serving Cart

$995

American of Martinsville Mid-Century Modern Bar Cart or Serving Cart

By American of Martinsville

Located in Las Vegas, NV

A Mid-century modern bar cart by American of Martinsville, featuring a warm walnut-toned case, sculpted recessed drawer pulls, brass supports, and original rolling casters. The desig...

Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Brass

Delightful American of Martinsville Burled Light Wood Bar Cart Mid-Century

$1,400Sale Price|20% Off

Delightful American of Martinsville Burled Light Wood Bar Cart Mid-Century

By American of Martinsville

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Delightful burled light wood bar cart made by American of Martinsville. This stylish piece is on roller and scoots around quite nicely. We love th...

Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Cart by Martinsville

$1,500

Mid-Century Cart by Martinsville

By American of Martinsville

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Rolling bar cart with two drawers and bottom liquor shelf. Laminate top used for liquids. Location: Brooklyn NY.

Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Walnut

Italian Mid-Century Bamboo and Rattan Serving Bar Cart or Trolley, 1970

On Hold|~~$1,155~~

H 28.35 in Dm 19.69 in

Italian Mid-Century Bamboo and Rattan Serving Bar Cart or Trolley, 1970

By Franco Albini

Located in Morazzone, Varese

Italian Mid-Century Bamboo and Rattan Serving Bar Cart or Trolley, 1970 Gorgeous bar cart or trolley made of curved bamboo and rattan during the Italian mid-century in the 1960s. Th...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Bamboo, Rattan

Italian Design Mid-Century Bar Cart, 1950s

$1,698Sale Price|20% Off

H 26.78 in W 27.56 in D 17.33 in

Italian Design Mid-Century Bar Cart, 1950s

Located in Casale Monferrato, IT

Rare 1950s Italian desgin serving bar cart. Made of beech wood equipped with two glass shelves and brass wheels for convenient movement. Perfect for serving drinks to your guests. Vi...

Category

1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Glass, Beech

Kent Coffey Mid-Century Modern Bar / Drinks Serving Cart with Expandable Top

$1,695

H 32 in W 39.25 in D 18.5 in

Kent Coffey Mid-Century Modern Bar / Drinks Serving Cart with Expandable Top

By Kent-Coffey

Located in Peabody, MA

Mid-Century Modern bar with expandable flip-top in black melamine, perfect for serving drinks. From the Perspecta line by Kent Coffey Furniture. With top fully open, this measures 6...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Walnut

Mid Century Italian Brass Bar Cart

$1,850

H 32.25 in W 35 in D 18.25 in

Mid Century Italian Brass Bar Cart

Located in Atlanta, GA

Midcentury brass bar cart, probably Italian, circa 1960s. Two large oval glass shelves provide lots of storage. Can be used as a bar cart, serving cart, or as movable storage in an o...

Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Wooden Bar Cart

$650

H 27 in W 30 in D 17 in

Mid-Century Wooden Bar Cart

Located in Haddonfield, NJ

Mid-Century Danish bar cart with plastic covered brass decorations. Top tray has sun related discoloration which appears to be a charming addition to a Classic Mid-Century design.

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Wood

Mid-Century Italian Tubular Brass Bar Serving Cart by Morex

$1,520Sale Price|56% Off

H 30 in W 34 in D 18.5 in

Mid-Century Italian Tubular Brass Bar Serving Cart by Morex

By Morex

Located in Las Vegas, NV

Exceptional three-tier rolling bar service cart by Italian maker Morex. Smoke glass shelving contrast on sculpted brass tube frame make this a st...

Category

1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Brass

Cesare Lacca Brass and Wood Mid-Century Bar Cart, Italy, 1950s

$2,476

H 28.35 in W 17.33 in D 27.56 in

Cesare Lacca Brass and Wood Mid-Century Bar Cart, Italy, 1950s

By (After) Gio Ponti, Cesare Lacca

Located in Roma, IT

Marvelous Italian bar trolley entirely crafted in brass and wood with crystal glass tops. This incredibly stylish and elegant piece was designed by Cesare Lacca and produced in Italy...

Category

1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Elm Bar Cart

$1,195

H 29.13 in W 28 in D 18.25 in

Mid-Century Elm Bar Cart

Located in High Point, NC

Mid-century elm bar cart from England with wonderfully grained shelves and sleek lines. Original casters.

Category

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Elm

Mid-Century Wooden Bar Cart by Cesare Lacca, Italy, 1950s

$1,171Sale Price|20% Off

H 26.78 in W 36.62 in D 18.51 in

Mid-Century Wooden Bar Cart by Cesare Lacca, Italy, 1950s

By Cesare Lacca

Located in Catania, CT

Sophisticated Italian bar cart designed by Cesare Lacca, crafted in the 1950s. The structure is made of beautifully shaped wood, showcasing Lacca’s signature organic lines and elegan...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Glass, Wood

Russell Woodard Wrought Iron Bar Tea Serving Cart Mid Century Modern

$920Sale Price|20% Off

H 35 in W 20 in D 32 in

Russell Woodard Wrought Iron Bar Tea Serving Cart Mid Century Modern

By Russell Woodard

Located in Wayne, NJ

Vintage Russell Woodard Sculptura wrought iron Bar Tea Service Cart . If you are in the New Jersey, New York City Metro Area, please contact us with your delivery zipcode, as we may...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Wrought Iron

Mid-Century Brass Bar Cart Trolley By MB Italy

$674

H 23.63 in W 22.05 in D 10.24 in

Mid-Century Brass Bar Cart Trolley By MB Italy

By MB Italy, Ico Parisi

Located in Torquay, GB

Vintage 1960s bar cart trolley by MB Italy, attributed to Ico Parisi. Consist of a rosewood veneered top and base with a midsection compartment for wine glass and bottles. Glides on ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Aluminum, Brass

Mid Century Teak Bar Cart

$480Sale Price|20% Off

H 28 in W 25.25 in D 16.25 in

Mid Century Teak Bar Cart

Located in Pasadena, TX

Mid century teak bar cart Two tier cart In teak with brass trim. Castors. Section for bottles or glassware on bottom shelf. Measures:...

Category

1960s European Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Teak

Previously Available Items

Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville 1960's Danish Style Rolling Bar Cart

Sold

H 32 in W 38 in D 18 in

Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville 1960's Danish Style Rolling Bar Cart

By American of Martinsville

Located in West Hartford, CT

Mid-Century Modern and Danish modern styles collide, in a good way, with this rolling barcart that features caster wheels, a laminate top and gorgeous detail throughout including flo...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Laminate, Teak, Walnut

American of Martinsville Faux Bamboo Rattan Rolling Serving Bar Cart

Sold

H 32.5 in W 50 in D 19 in

American of Martinsville Faux Bamboo Rattan Rolling Serving Bar Cart

By American of Martinsville

Located in Lake Worth, FL

For full item description be sure to click on CONTINUE READING at the bottom of this listing. Offering one of our recent palm beach estate fine furniture acquisitions of a American of Martinsville...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Bamboo, Rattan, Glass

Classic Mid-Century Modern Walnut Expandable Rolling Bar Cart, Server

Sold

H 31 in W 39 in L 31 in

Classic Mid-Century Modern Walnut Expandable Rolling Bar Cart, Server

By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun

Located in Buffalo, NY

Classic Mid-Century Modern walnut expandable rolling bar cart or server, Manufactured by American of Martinsville, designed by Merton L. Gershun. Expanding white laminate sliding top...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Laminate, Walnut

Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Bar Cart

Sold

H 35 in W 46.25 in D 18.75 in

Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Bar Cart

By American of Martinsville

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Walnut and black laminate rolling bar cart by American of Martinsville. Laminate top and locking double doors below with storage drawer and wine racks. This piece includes a working ...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Laminate, Walnut

American Of Martinsville carts and bar carts for sale on 1stDibs.

American of Martinsville carts and bar carts 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 carts and bar carts, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original carts and bar carts 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 carts and bar carts by Drexel, Charles Hollis Jones, and Mastercraft. Prices for American of Martinsville carts and bar carts can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,050 and can go as high as $1,750, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $1,440.

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Questions About American of Martinsville Carts and Bar Carts

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 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 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 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 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.

More American of Martinsville Furniture

American of Martinsville End Tables

American of Martinsville Side Tables

American of Martinsville Coffee and Cocktail Tables

American of Martinsville Dining Room Tables

American of Martinsville Console Tables

American of Martinsville Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

American of Martinsville Seating

American of Martinsville Mirrors

American of Martinsville Asian Art and Furniture

American of Martinsville Night Stands

American of Martinsville Beds and Bed Frames

American of Martinsville Bedroom Sets