Nichols & stone rocker

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