Name: Working Wood in the 18th Century Conference: Exploring Early American Chairs
Start: 2026-01-22T08:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-01-25T17:00:00-05:00
Location: Colonial Williamsburg

Working Wood in the 18th Century Conference: Exploring Early American Chairs

Any chair can be read as a postcard from a particular place and time, written in the language of its makers and customers. This year, we’ll explore six chairs, each from a different period, diverse in technical approaches and cultural backgrounds, but all united by the universal desire for a good place to sit. From the colonial period through the early decades of nationhood, from green woodworking to upholstery, carving to turning, and joinery to design, distinguished guests and expert staff from Colonial Williamsburg will spotlight a multitude of topics and techniques drawn from early America’s rich woodworking traditions.
Whether you’re just making your entry into historical woodworking techniques and furniture history or are a seasoned veteran of the fields, our program, along with numerous hands-on and behind the scenes pre-conference activities, promises something for everyone. In-person and virtual options are available.