Antique "Haney School Furniture Co" Vintage Old Victorian Wood Wooden Ornate Cast Iron Legs Student Child Desk Side End Table Foldable Seat

What a rare find! This handsome, antique student desk was made by, "Haney School Furniture Co." of Grand Rapids, MI sometime during the late 1800's. The top, backrest, and seat are made of a hardwood (most likely maple) and the legs are made of cast iron.

If you are wondering how you sit and access the writing top, you don't. These desks were fastened to the floor back to back. The writing table attached to your desk was actually for the student behind you and you used the table of the student in front of you.

Unfortunately, someone painted the seat a light, yellowish-green color. The backrest is stained and the top is partially stained (distressed). The seat lifts to make the desk more compact.

The top has a hole called an, "ink well." There is also a grove along the back edge which is used to store pencils. There is a short, open compartment underneath used to store books, paper, rulers, and other supplies.

The last photo in this listing shows an ad for one of these desks from an 1886 catalog.

Considering it's age, it's in really good shape. Expect the usual nicks, scratches, and worn stain/finish. Although you could see some minor separation between the boards that comprise the top, the boards are tightly held together and there is no looseness. The iron has some rust but not heavy corrosion or rot. The desk is strong, sturdy, and ready for another lifetime of service! 
 

Dimensions

Top: 17 1/4"W x 11"D
(hole is 2" diameter)

Backrest: 18"W x 13 1/2"D

Seat: 18"W x 10 1/2"D

* when extended, the total front to back measurement is 25", and 17" when folded.

Height: 11 3/4" (to seat) and 23 1/2" (to top of desk)