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Question
I recently received a desk which has a label on the back of it that reads Factory No. 2 - The Larkin Soap/Mfg. Company Buffalo, NY This desk has a drop down writing surface and some shelves beneath for holding I assume, books. Can you tell me anything about it? It is made out of Oak and I'd like to refinish it.
Hi Yvette
Nice to hear from you.
This turned out to be a very interesting question for me and I learned something I never knew.
The Larkin soap company made soaps, but from what I read on line, they offered premiums to customers or possibly sales people..it wasn't clear on that.
One of these premiums was a drop down writing desk as you describe.
Yvette, try to leave the finish alone.
Just clean and wax.
Have no idea if this is worth anything, but why take the chance.
Look here. Is this a desk like yours?
http://freenet.buffalo.edu/bah/a/DERBY/oldlake/6472/02lark/miller/index.html
And heres a bit of company history.
http://freenet.buffalo.edu/bah/h/larkin/mer/index.html
And lo and behold they even have a contact person.
Heres his e-mail
jpp@buffnet.net <jpp@buffnet.net>
I would certainly write him as they invite queries.
Now how good is that LOL.
Thanks for a great question.
Kind Regards
Eileen
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Eileen Cronk
Expertise
I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.
Experience
I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.
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