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.
Vintage Lacquered and Brass Modernist Dresser, 1980s
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Step into the world of refined modernism with this exceptional 1980s mid-century dresser, a testament to the artistry and ingenuity of American craftsmanship. Every line and surface ...
Brass
Vintage Rosewood and Brass Campaign Dresser by John Stuart
By John Stuart Inc.
Located in North Hollywood, CA
A stunning vintage rosewood campaign dresser, a true gem from the renowned John Stuart of New York, crafted in the 1960s. This exquisite piece not only serves as a functional storage...
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Walnut Dresser by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in North Hollywood, CA
A gorgeous example of American mid-century design, this walnut and lacquered dresser by Merton L. Gershun for American of Martinsville embodies the clean sophistication and material ...
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Walnut and Lacquer Credenza by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in North Hollywood, CA
An exceptional mid-century modern credenza designed by Merton L. Gershun for American of Martinsville, United States, circa 1960s. Known for blending clean architectural lines with l...
Brass
Mid-Century Walnut Credenza by Merton L. Gershun for American of Martinsville
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Introducing this stunning vintage long credenza, designed by Merton L. Gershun for American of Martinsville in the 1960s. It’s a true gem from the Diana II Collection, which is celeb...
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Rosewood Tall Dresser by Robert Baron for Glenn of California
By Glenn of California, Robert Baron
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Mid-century modern Brazilian rosewood tall chest of drawers designed by Robert Baron for Glenn of California, USA, circa 1960s. This exceptional dresser captures the refined aestheti...
Aluminum, Chrome
Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern Dresser w, Brass Accents
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Condition: Expertly Refinished With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for vintage desig...
Brass
Large Bleached Mahogany Dresser by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Large bleached mahogany dresser by American of Martinsville. Stamped.
Brass
Mid Century Modern Lowboy Dresser with Chrome Accents by American of Martinsvill
By American of Martinsville
Located in Freehold, NJ
This mid century modern lowboy dresser by American of Martinsville features hardwood construction, six dovetailed drawers, stunning walnut veneer on drawer and cabinet faces, black p...
Chrome
Large Bleached Mahogany Dresser by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Large bleached mahogany dresser by American of Martinsville. Stamped.
Brass
Lacquer Brass Hardware Mid-Century Modern Long Credenza Dresser Nine Drawers
By Tommi Parzinger, James Mont
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Stunning white lacquer cabinet with polished brass pulls. Medium gloss finish.
Brass
Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern Chinoiserie Dresser
By American of Martinsville
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Condition: Expertly Refinished With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for vintage desig...
Brass
