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Early 20th c. Children's Roll-top Desk c.1930
ABOUT
The solid wood roll-top children's desk manufactured in the late 1930's by the Paris Manufacturing Co., of South Paris, Maine. Stamped "No. 500" on the back.
- CREATOR Paris Mfg. Co., South Paris Maine.
- DATE OF MANUFACTURE c.1930.
- MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES Oak.
- CONDITION Good. Wear consistent with age and use.
- DIMENSIONS H 32.25 in. x D 21 in. W 21 in. Knee Clearance: 14.25 in .
HISTORY
In 1861, Henry Morton and his brother started making snow sleds in West Sumner, then Paris Hill, before establishing a permanent factory in South Paris in 1884. The logistics of obtaining supplies and shipping product were enhanced at that location.
In 1904 the company employed around 300 people and was turning out 1,500 sleds each day, a leading producer in the country. Arctic explorer Donald McMillan asked the company to make dog sleds for his ventures and he attributed the trips’ success to the reliability and quality of the equipment. The company would also upholster some sled models at the request of the buyer.
The company made numerous other items, including quality hardwood chairs, tables and roll-top desks for adults and children. It was a renowned employer in the community for 127 years.
