School desk with woven seat from NC Academy/College 1850-1910

[kcfoy]

I acquired two old adult school desks some years ago from a local man, who stated the desks came from Yadkin College, a private school which operated as a college and academy in NC from the 1850s to the 1910s.  The desks were in really bad shape and missing the bottom woven caning.  The writing arm of the desk is almost 2 inches thick.  I've never seen any other desks like these.  They are obviously made for adults or older students due to their size.  They were probably made by a local furniture maker, probably in the Lexington or Salisbury area.  They look like oak.  I've posted pictures of the desk, which I refinished and put a new bottom in.  If anyone has any ideas on these desks, I'd love to hear them.  You can email me directly at kfoy@networktrainers.com

Thanks.

[D&b antiques]

circa 1910 or so. you did a nice job. but value wise there worth about $125.00 Dollars per chair.

[kcfoy]

Thanks for the info.  Have you ever seen one like this before?

[KC]

I saw them growing up in southern homes (60's - 70's)where they were being "reused" for telephone chairs. I believe they were referred to as student lecture chairs but have also known them to be referred to as library chairs.  I have actually seen one similar just within the past month.  Just a little different shape on the desk-top part.  I was at an antique refinishing shop and he was reweaving the seat for a customer.  It appears to me like the style of the south and eastern parts of the US in the early 1900's.

[kcfoy]

Thanks again for all the information.