Folding Rocking Chairs offer a unique blend of comfort and portability. But have you ever wondered about their origins? This article delves into the fascinating history of the first folding rocking chair invented in the United States, highlighting the ingenuity of the Collignon brothers.
A Collignon folding rocking chair in its folded position, showcasing its compact quarter-moon shape.
The Collignon Brothers: Pioneers of Portable Comfort
In 1868, Nicholas, Claudius, and Adam Collignon revolutionized seating with their invention of the folding rocking chair. Recognizing the need for space-saving furniture, particularly in the era of covered wagons, the Collignon brothers devised a chair that could be easily folded into a compact quarter-moon shape. Their innovative design, patented on March 10, 1868, paved the way for various folding chair styles, including deck chairs, lawn chairs, and, of course, the iconic folding rocking chair.
A well-preserved Collignon folding rocking chair, showcasing its intricate design and craftsmanship.
Identifying a Genuine Collignon Chair
Authentic Collignon chairs bear the distinct mark of the Collignon name and the patent date, typically stamped on the bottom or back of the chair. These markings serve as a guarantee of the chair’s originality and historical significance.
Close-up of the Collignon name and patent date stamped on the underside of a chair.
Example of the Collignon patent information stamped on the back of a chair.
Collignon Chairs Across Continents
The popularity of Collignon folding chairs extended far beyond their New Jersey origins. Examples have been found as far away as Fredericksburg, Texas, and even Canada. The discovery of a meticulously restored 1871 Collignon folding deck chair in Canada underscores the enduring appeal and craftsmanship of these chairs.
A beautifully restored Collignon folding deck chair, showcasing the original black walnut wood.
The Collignon Legacy: From Humble Beginnings to Global Recognition
The Collignon brothers’ journey began in Westwood, New Jersey, where their factory employed the entire town. Their entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality craftsmanship led to the creation of a thriving business that supplied chairs to major steamship companies, including Ward, Cunard, Panama, and the Pacific Steamship Company.
A vintage poster showcasing the diverse range of folding chairs manufactured by the Collignon Brothers. Claudius O. Collignon, one of the inventors, is pictured in the center of the bottom row.
The Collignon Family History: A Tale of Innovation and Perseverance
Peter Collignon, the patriarch of the family, emigrated from France to the United States in 1825. His sons, Nicholas, Claudius, and Adam, inherited his entrepreneurial spirit and established the Collignon chair factory in Bergen County, New Jersey. The factory thrived for decades, producing thousands of chairs that became synonymous with comfort and portability.
A historical image of the Collignon chair factory in Westwood, New Jersey.
The Enduring Appeal of Folding Rocking Chairs
The Collignon brothers’ invention of the folding rocking chair was a testament to their ingenuity and foresight. Their chairs not only addressed a practical need for space-saving furniture but also became cherished heirlooms, passed down through generations. Today, folding rocking chairs continue to be popular choices for their blend of comfort, portability, and timeless design. The Collignon legacy lives on in every folding rocking chair that provides relaxation and enjoyment.
Horse-drawn wagons transporting logs to the Collignon chair factory, highlighting the scale of the operation.
Collignon’s Pond in winter, which provided ice for recreation and steam for the factory machinery.
