Nichols & stone rocker

By @Kay, 27 May, 2025
Description

I purchased this rocker for a project and I wanted to find out more about it.  I’ve searched online but I have not seen a similar style that is a rocker (only chairs). There are a number of markings under the seat with the manufacturer information and I included those pictures. I’d appreciate any information! Thanks 

Category
American Furniture
Condition
Good
For Sale?
No
Photos

NaidaTheCollector

1 day 1 hour ago

Maker:

Nichols & Stone Company – Gardner, Massachusetts

  • Marked with the branded “NS” shield and yellow paper label indicating “The Home of Windsor Chairs”
  • Known for high-quality American hardwood furniture since 1857, Nichols & Stone is one of the oldest furniture manufacturers in the U.S.

Item Description:

  • Type: Windsor-style rocking chair with bentwood crest rail, turned spindles, and stretcher base
  • Material: Northern hardwood (likely maple or birch)
  • Finish: Medium-dark stain with visible wear on arms and seat
  • Markings:
    • Branded NS shield and company name on underside
    • Yellow label with style/model numbers: 446 070 (design or batch code)
    • Inspection or lot number sticker with a possible date code (looks like 1988)

Estimated Age:

  • Late 1980s, based on the paper label style and lot code
  • This chair reflects the revival Windsor forms Nichols & Stone produced in the mid–late 20th century, updated from their classic earlier 1900s designs

Rarity:

  • Most Nichols & Stone Windsor armchairs are seen as dining or desk chairs; rocking chair variants are less common, making this a more interesting collector or decorator piece

Condition:

  • Overall: Good
    • Structurally sound with all parts intact
    • Moderate finish wear on arms and seat (consistent with age and use)
    • Labels and stamps are still readable, which helps with authentication

Current Market Value (2025):

Condition

Estimated Value

Very Good (as-is)

$125 – $175 USD

Excellent Restored

$200 – $300 USD

At Auction or Antique Store

$100 – $150 USD

 

Note: These chairs are valued more for their craftsmanship and name than age alone. Nichols & Stone is collectible, especially among fans of traditional American furniture.

Collector & Design Notes:

  • This rocker is ideal for collectors of:
    • American-made Windsor-style furniture
    • Late 20th-century Nichols & Stone pieces
  • Also popular in Colonial Revival and Shaker-inspired interiors
  • The “boomerang”-like pencil marking may be from the factory or a craftsman’s mark (not a formal maker’s mark)

Recommendations:

  • You don’t need a professional appraisal unless you’re insuring a collection or considering resale through a fine furniture dealer
  • You can enhance its value and appeal with a gentle refinish or just clean and preserve the patina if you like the aged look
Average: 5 (1 vote)