In
the early 1840's iron furniture was introduced into the homes of America. Until then
iron was customarily used in the garden area for urns, benches light poles and primarily
in the home for staircase bannisters, and architectural uses, such as cupolas, porch
railings on terraces, etc.
With this dramatic introduction to utilitarian and furniture purposes were born some of
the most beautiful and well crafted, as well as distinctly durable items of that century
as well as today's.
One of the most useful, durable and beautiful of these items is the Iron Bed in my
opinion. With the graceful curve of the Nouveau period beds to the stalwart
strait structure of the Mission period, the iron beds dictated the look of a room, yet
could be used with any style furniture, from pine to rosewood.
Although I admit that the Victorian era iron beds are my favorite...many Mission and
Country beds also satisfy my thirst for this wonderful piece of our history and future.
It is my firm belief that these beds will endure the hardships and trials of the future,
just as they have for the past one hundred and sixty years.
One of the true delights in using the iron bed is the ability to change the color to match
the decor of your room. Let's face it....our decorating changes from time to
time. An iron bed will always blend well with any decor...even modern.
Even the iron baby beds....which I do not recommend for a baby unless it has been
converted to safety regulations.....have their uses in and out of the home.
They make lovely loveseats, daybeds, etc. Be sure to coat with a clear marine finish
if used outside the home ... such as porch benches, or plant holders.
While authentic antique iron beds are the most in demand, metal beds are coming on
strong. I am not referring to foreign made cheap material beds, but rather to the
1910 through 1940 era, which were very sturdy in most cases, and make inexpensive
additions to your home. These beds are given honorable mention only because the fall
into the antique or collectible bed class. Be careful if you sandblast metal beds
because the thickness of the metal can be cut into easily with sandblasting. This is
not the case with iron beds as they are much thicker material.
Three quarter iron beds were much in demand in the late 1800's as most people either made
their own coverlets, etc. or they could be purchased just about any where. Today
they can still be purchased, but generally from select companies, rather than any
department store. Three quarter beds are 48 inches wide and need a custom
mattress. Again these mattresses can also be purchased ...but generally from a
mattress company rather than department stores. Sometimes the length of the bed is
also shorter than the modern bed.
There are many reproductions of the iron bed.....but none can encompass the distinct
beauty or durability of the Authentic Antique Iron Bed. True antique iron beds stand
in a honor roll all their own.
God Bless America
