Expert: Anderson's Restorations-Rob Anderson - 12/15/2009

Question
My husbands grandmother rocked him in this old rocking chair.  The rocker is broken on the right side, and I considered having it refinished for Christmas or our Anniversary.  When turning it over tonight, I noticed a wood carved stamp on the bottom that had a crest enclosing N & S.  Above the crest was Nichols & Stone and below said Gardners Mas...... last letters rubbed off.  Is this rocker of any value and are there other signs to look for to distinguish value?  Also, is this rocker worth repair, and if so any suggestions?  Jennifer

Answer
Thanks for your question,
 I would have the rockers replaced. Do both and save the unbroken one. As for refinishing, that's a hard call to make.If the rocker is in really bad shape that would be the thing to do. If it's just some wear and scratches, you might think about just getting that touched up and have it clear coated over the existing finish.{use a satin, not gloss}
As for the age, without a picture to see the style, I couldn't give you a time and even then, they made chairs for many years so you can't always go by the style. I have a set of Windsor Chairs made by N%26S in around the 60s with the same markings you have.I also read that N%26S in Mass is closing the plant. They have been bought by Stickley Fur and will be made in NC now.
It's a chair worth doing something with so you can enjoy it!  
  Rob
 http://www.andersonsrestorations.com