When one looks at the long timeline of the history of Europe and the USA, it is important to note that the majority of people, by a significant margin, lived on farms. While some large cities in Europe and the East Coast of the US had substantial populations, the vast majority of individuals resided on small subsistence farms. Even my father, who was the youngest of 13 children, was raised on such a farm. These farms primarily provided food for sustenance rather than significant monetary profits, if any at all. Concurrently, in the history of this country, there were the grand plantations of the South and the large acreage farms of Pennsylvania, New York, Indiana, and Ohio. However, regardless of the size of the farm, there was always a table that served as the focal point of family life. Even the wealthiest plantation owners may have never prepared a single meal themselves, but someone did so on a farm table. The point here is that this humble yet ubiquitous piece of furniture was present everywhere. This brief snapshot highlights the once-universal presence of a farm table in every house, regardless of its size, and underscores its significance in American culture and daily life.
To gain insight into the farm table, it is essential to understand the historical context leading up to the Industrial Revolution, which continues to play a significant role in our lives today. In the centuries preceding the Industrial Revolution, most products were handmade using wood and crafted on the farm by the individuals who would use them, such as the farmer or the farmer's wife. The absence of a monetary system meant that having goods made for you, with the exception of services provided by blacksmiths, was uncommon. Instead, bartering was the prevalent method of exchange.
While there were no strict rules, many people possessed the skill to create their own furniture, including tables. Consequently, farm tables were often characterized by their simplicity and unrefined construction. However, it is important to note that not all farm tables were crude. During my travels, I have come across beautifully made yet modest farm tables, dispelling the misconception that all farm tables were rudimentary. They displayed a harmonious blend of functionality and craftsmanship.
Another significant aspect of classic farm tables was their lightweight nature and ease of mobility. Typically, they were long and narrow in shape, designed to fit within the elongated and slender rooms they occupied. Between meals, it was common to move the table to the side of the room, allowing for other activities to take place. In fact, it was not uncommon for the main room to be utilized for tasks such as threshing wheat, as its hard and flat surface made it suitable for such agricultural activities. (I will delve further into the topic of threshing in a future blog.)
Contrary to contemporary misconceptions, authentic farm tables were slender and delicately constructed. The prevalent notion of bulky legs and heavy tops associated with farm tables today does not align with their historical characteristics. I mention this not to be argumentative but rather to provide clarity on what truly defines a farm table. Just as you cannot call a locomotive a tricycle, the same principle applies to mislabeling a table as a farm table.
Understanding the essence of a farm table allows us to appreciate its historical significance and distinguish it from modern interpretations. Farm tables, with their unassuming elegance and practicality, capture the essence of a bygone era. Embracing their true essence adds a touch of authenticity to our homes and reminds us of the enduring legacy of craftsmanship and self-sufficiency.
Warmest Regards,
David Grant Howard