Vintage Woodard patio furniture is highly sought after for its durability, craftsmanship, and timeless design. Founded in 1866, Woodard has been producing quality outdoor furniture for over 150 years.
The company’s furniture has gone through various design styles over the years, so identifying a vintage Woodard piece requires a keen eye for detail.
In this article, we’ll discuss some tips on how to identify vintage Woodard patio furniture.
The History Of Woodard Patio Furniture
Woodard patio furniture has a long and rich history that dates back to the mid-1800s. The company was founded by Lyman Woodard in Owosso, Michigan, in 1866. Originally, the company produced cast iron fences, but as the popularity of outdoor furniture grew, Woodard shifted its focus to producing high-quality outdoor furniture.
In the 1930s, Woodard began to produce wrought iron patio furniture, which became the company’s signature style. The wrought iron furniture was known for its durability, intricate designs, and classic style, and quickly became a popular choice for homeowners and commercial properties.
During World War II, Woodard shifted its focus to producing materials for the war effort. After the war, the company resumed producing outdoor furniture and began to incorporate new materials, including aluminum and steel, into its designs.
In the 1960s, Woodard introduced its “Sculptura” collection, which featured a unique mesh-like design that was unlike anything else on the market at the time. The Sculptura collection quickly became a favorite among homeowners and designers, and its popularity continued into the 1970s.
In the 1980s, Woodard introduced new designs that incorporated modern materials and contemporary styles. The company continued to innovate and expand its product line throughout the 1990s and 2000s, offering a wide range of styles, colors, and materials to suit every taste and budget.
Today, Woodard is still a leader in the outdoor furniture industry, producing high-quality patio furniture that is known for its durability, style, and craftsmanship. The company continues to innovate and adapt to changing trends, while still maintaining its commitment to quality and tradition.
8 Ways to Identify Vintage Woodard Patio Furniture
1. Look for the Woodard signature
The best way to identify vintage woodard patio furniture is to look for the “Woodard” stamp or “W” on the underside of the furniture.
The first step in identifying a vintage Woodard patio furniture piece is to look for the Woodard signature. From the 1930s to the mid-1970s, Woodard marked its pieces with a “Woodard” stamp or “W” on the underside of the furniture.
The stamp may be difficult to read if it has faded over time or if there is dirt and grime built up on the furniture.
2. Examine the design
Woodard’s outdoor furniture designs have changed over the years, and some designs are more indicative of certain time periods than others. For example, the mesh-style seating that was popular in the 1950s and 1960s has a distinctive look and is typically made from wrought iron or aluminum.
Additionally, Woodard introduced its “Sculptura” collection in the 1960s, which features a unique mesh-like design. By examining the design of the furniture, you can get a better idea of when it was produced.
3. Check the materials
Vintage Woodard patio furniture was primarily made from wrought iron, aluminum, and steel. Wrought iron furniture was the company’s signature style from the 1930s to the 1950s. It was known for its durability and intricate designs.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Woodard began to incorporate aluminum into its designs, which made the furniture lighter and more durable. The use of steel became more prevalent in the 1980s.
4. Look for rust or corrosion
While Woodard patio furniture is known for its durability, over time, it can begin to rust or corrode. If you’re examining a vintage piece of Woodard furniture, look for signs of rust or corrosion on the metal.
Small amounts of rust or corrosion can be repaired, but if it’s severe, it may be a sign that the furniture has been neglected or exposed to the elements for an extended period.
5. Evaluate the condition
The condition of the vintage Woodard patio furniture is essential in determining its value. Look for signs of wear and tear, including scratches, dents, or missing pieces.
If the furniture has been painted or refinished, it may detract from its value, as original finishes are highly prized by collectors.
6. Research the piece
If you’re having difficulty identifying a vintage Woodard patio furniture piece, do some research. There are many online resources and antique dealers that specialize in vintage outdoor furniture. By researching the piece, you may be able to determine its age, rarity, and value.
7. Check for authenticity
Unfortunately, there are many counterfeit Woodard pieces on the market, which can be challenging to distinguish from authentic pieces. One way to determine authenticity is to examine the furniture’s construction.
Authentic Woodard furniture is well-constructed and uses high-quality materials. Additionally, if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
8. Seek the advice of an expert
If you’re serious about collecting vintage Woodard patio furniture, seek the advice of an expert. Antique dealers or outdoor furniture restoration experts can help you identify and evaluate pieces, as well as offer tips on how to care for and maintain your collection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, identifying vintage Woodard patio furniture requires a careful examination of the furniture’s signature, design, materials, rust or corrosion, condition, authenticity, and expert advice. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a rare and valuable piece of vintage Woodard furniture.
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