Cron kills secretary desk

Summary

Item:
Antique American Drop-Front Secretary Desk
Maker's Mark: "C-K Co." (C.K. Company, Ohio)
Model or Lot Numbers: 1264 and 623 (stamped in multiple places)
Estimated Age: Circa 1920s–1930s
Style: Colonial Revival / Early 20th Century American Traditional
Construction: Solid wood with dovetail drawer construction
Features:

• Drop-front writing surface with brass hinges
• Pull-out writing tray
• Interior cubbyholes and small drawers
• Six exterior drawers (three per pedestal)
• Turned legs and spade feet
• Factory-applied finish, likely mahogany or dark-stained walnut
• Dovetail joinery (machine-cut, suggesting early 20th-century manufacture)
• Original drawer pulls and escutcheons

Maker Information:

C-K Company, Ohio
This marking refers to the Cowan-Knight Furniture Company, sometimes abbreviated as C-K Co., which was known for producing quality factory-made American furniture in Ohio during the early 20th century. Their products often reflected Colonial Revival and traditional American styles that were popular in the 1920s–1940s. These pieces were sold regionally and occasionally through catalog retailers.

The numbers 1264 and 623 are likely factory model and batch numbers, used for internal tracking and assembly rather than dating.

Condition:

• Overall: Excellent structural condition
• Finish: Some visible wear and surface discoloration, especially on top surfaces and drawer faces (common with age)
• Hardware: Appears original and intact
• Joinery: Dovetail construction is tight and not separating
• Interior: Writing surface and compartments show only minor wear

This piece appears to have been well cared for and retains its original integrity. Minimal refinishing may restore its luster while preserving value.

Historical and Decorative Value:

This drop-front secretary would have originally been used in a home office or parlor. The Colonial Revival style, along with the machine dovetail construction, suggests it was made between 1920 and 1940. At the time, these desks were both practical and elegant, with handcrafted look achieved through factory mass production.

Current Market Value (2025):

Market Type

Estimated Value (USD)

Private Party Sale

$300 – $500

Antique Dealer Retail

$600 – $850

Auction (Online/Local)

$250 – $450

Restored Condition Retail

$800 – $1,100

Note: Value can vary based on regional demand, finish quality, and originality.

Recommendations:

• Preservation: Avoid stripping the finish unless absolutely necessary. Light cleaning and waxing with furniture-safe products (e.g. Howard’s Feed-N-Wax) is preferred.
• Documentation: Keep photos and detail records, especially of the CK Ohio label and drawer construction.
• Appraisal for Insurance: If insuring or restoring, consider a professional in-person appraisal for updated value.
• Professional Appraisal Needed? Optional, unless the piece is being sold through a high-value venue or insurance claim is involved.