Find the Right Antique Rocking Chair & Rocking Chairs

No single individual is credited with inventing rocking chairs.  However, legend has it that Benjamin Franklin was one of the first to put one in his home.  Whether you are an antique furniture buff or a soon-to-be-mom, you want a comfortable, good-looking rocking chair to support you. 

Essentially, a rocking chair is a standard chair mounted onto curved slats.  Certain rockers are especially built for indoor use.  These include antique mahogany leather Victorian chairs.  (Owners typically do not want such fine leather materials exposed to the elements).  Other rockers, such as white wicker pieces (often found in the Midwest), can be used to support porch sitting and picnic use.

Modern rocking chair manufacturers often ape the antique styles.  You can discover superior furnishings from L.L. Bean, Mission Oak, Amish and others.  You can also find gliding chairs (which slide back and forth along runners) and tiny antique chairs built for children.

Special features might include extra comfortable leather armrests, lumbar supports for the back, and safety spring mechanisms to prevent accidentally rocking over one's feet.  Top antique rocking chairs rock noiselessly and smoothly.  However, antique collectors also value character, particularly in antique rocking chairs.  When parsing antique wooden chairs, work with your seller to ensure the stability of the under-girding structure.  You can also purchase antique pillows and armrests separately to dress up your rocking chair.