how to date cushman furniture

Dating Cushman furniture, particularly pieces manufactured by the H.T. Cushman Manufacturing Company, can be challenging because the company didn’t always include specific date markings on their products. However, you can use several methods and clues to estimate the age of Cushman furniture:

1. Label or Markings: Examine the furniture for any labels, stamps, or markings. Cushman furniture sometimes had paper labels or engraved marks that indicated the company name “H.T. Cushman” or variations of the logo. These labels may have evolved over time, and reference guides exist that can help you identify which time period a particular label corresponds to.
2. Design Features: Pay attention to the design and style of the furniture. Changes in design elements, such as the type of wood used, decorative motifs, hardware, and construction techniques, can offer clues about the furniture’s age. Research the history of Cushman furniture designs to identify when specific features were popular.
3. Materials and Construction: Examine the type of wood, joinery, and construction methods used in the furniture. Different eras saw variations in materials and techniques. Changes in finishes, upholstery fabrics, and decorative elements can also provide hints about the furniture’s age.
4. Catalogs and Advertisements: Collectors often use vintage catalogs and advertisements from H.T. Cushman to identify furniture models and their corresponding years of production. These materials may still exist in public or private collections.
5. Collectors’ Resources: There are collectors’ books, websites, and forums dedicated to antique and vintage furniture, including Cushman models. These resources often contain information about the history of H.T. Cushman, furniture models, and manufacturing periods.
6. Consult with Antique Furniture Experts: Experts in antique and vintage furniture, including collectors and appraisers, can provide insights based on their knowledge and experience. They may be able to estimate the furniture’s age by examining specific features and design elements.
7. Online Furniture Communities: Join online furniture collector communities and forums. Share pictures and descriptions of your Cushman furniture, and experienced collectors may offer insights into its age.

While dating Cushman furniture may not always yield a precise date, the information you gather can help you estimate its age within a certain range. Additionally, the value of Cushman furniture can vary based on factors like age, condition, rarity, and demand among collectors and antique furniture enthusiasts.

If you’re interested in selling or insuring your Cushman furniture, consider getting it appraised by a professional antique furniture appraiser who specializes in vintage and antique furniture. They can provide a more accurate assessment of its age and value.