A Victorian Furniture Factory
The High Wycombe Furniture Factory, initially owned by James Elliott and Son, stands as a testament to the rich industrial history of High Wycombe. Erected in 1887, this working factory continued its operations until 1974. Situated on Shaftsbury Street in High Wycombe, the factory played a significant role in the local economy and the evolution of furniture craftsmanship throughout its operational years.
The Story Behind the Furniture Factory at the Museum
Wycombe Borough Council generously gifted the High Wycombe Furniture Factory to the Museum in 1978, ensuring the preservation of a vital piece of the region's industrial history. The meticulous process of re-erection began with Taylor Woodrow apprentices in the winter of 1985-86, culminating in the completion of the first wing in 1987. Shiver-me-Timbers of Tring skillfully handled the slating, adding an authentic touch to the restoration. Initially serving as the chair assembly shop, this wing later transformed into a tea room for Museum visitors.
Subsequently, the second wing, positioned prominently at the building's front, was completed a few years later. This section once housed the pattern shop, drying kiln, and works office, providing insight into the multifaceted operations of a historic furniture factory.
Facing the threat of demolition for housing development, the decision to preserve the factory resonated with the Chilterns' renowned furniture-making heritage, making it a fitting representation of the region's industrial legacy.
The History of the Factory
High Wycombe's reputation as a hub for furniture making was solidified by our furniture factory, renowned for crafting a distinctive chair known as the Windsor. In its early days, the factory served as an assembly point for these chairs. Chair legs, crucial components, were supplied by skilled craftsmen called bodgers, who operated in huts in the woods. Using equipment like the pole lathe, a foot-operated pedal spun wood rapidly while the bodger skillfully shaped it with a sharp chisel. This versatile technique extended to crafting spoons and bowls, showcasing the bodgers' craftsmanship in various forms, a skill demonstrated today in our Bodgers Area.
Notably, during the First World War, the factory pivoted its production to contribute flaps for aeroplane wings. In World War II, it played a crucial role by manufacturing fireproof furniture for the Royal Navy, showcasing the adaptability and significance of High Wycombe's furniture industry in times of national need.
Visit our Bodgers Area to witness a working pole lathe in action and delve deeper into the fascinating history of furniture making in High Wycombe. Discover why the region became a flourishing center for furniture production, linking its heritage to the skilled artisans who contributed to this thriving trade.
The Materials and Design of the High Wycombe Furniture Factory
The furniture factory comprises two distinct sections: the lower floors constructed from sturdy brick and the upper floors featuring a wooden frame enveloped in long boards. A slate roof crowns the structure, contributing to its durability and traditional aesthetic. Noteworthy are the exterior steep stairs, strategically designed to conserve space internally while facilitating the transportation of chair parts from the stock yard on the lower level.
Upstairs, you'll find windows with a charmingly mismatched appearance, crafted from thin overlapping pieces of glass. The varied lengths of the glass strips result from utilising leftover remnants from other sheets, reflecting a cost-effective approach to construction. This intriguing blend of materials and design choices not only embodies the practical considerations of the furniture-making process but also adds character to the building.
Inside the High Wycombe Furniture Factory
The factory showcases an array of woodworking tools, providing a glimpse into the craftsmanship of chair production. A pole lathe and chair display enrich the visitor experience, offering insight into the techniques employed during the heyday of the furniture trade in High Wycombe.
The Furniture Factory occasionally hosts exhibitions in its downstairs rooms, featuring works by local artists and craftspeople. Stay updated on these events by checking the events section of our website for more details and subscribe to our mailing list for the latest news and events.