Mission Antiques
Authentic Antique Iron Beds by Mary H. Sigman
AUTHENTIC ANTIQUE IRON BEDS
In the early 1840’s iron furniture was introduced into the homes of America. Until then iron was customarily used in the garden area for urns, benches light poles and primarily in the home for staircase bannisters, and architectural uses, such as cupolas, porch railings on terraces, etc.
With this dramatic introduction to utilitarian and furniture purposes were born some of the most beautiful and well crafted, as well as distinctly durable items of that century as well as today’s.
One of the most useful, durable and beautiful of these items is the Iron Bed in my opinion. With the graceful curve of the Nouveau period beds to the stalwart strait structure of the Mission period, the iron beds dictated the look of a room, yet could be used with any style furniture, from pine to rosewood.
Although I admit that the Victorian era iron beds are my favorite…many Mission and Country beds also satisfy my thirst for this wonderful piece of our history and future.
It is my firm belief that these beds will endure the hardships and trials of the future, just as they have for the past one hundred and sixty years.
One of the true delights in using the iron bed is the ability to change the color to match the decor of your room. Let’s face it….our decorating changes from time to time. An iron bed will always blend well with any decor…even modern.
Even the iron baby beds….which I do not recommend for a baby unless it has been converted to safety regulations…..have their uses in and out of the home. They make lovely loveseats, daybeds, etc. Be sure to coat with a clear marine finish if used outside the home… such as porch benches, or plant holders.
While authentic antique iron beds are the most in demand, metal beds are coming on strong. I am not referring to foreign made cheap material beds, but rather to the 1910 through 1940 era, which were very sturdy in most cases, and make inexpensive additions to your home. These beds are given honorable mention only because the fall into the antique or Collectible bed class. Be careful if you sandblast metal beds because the thickness of the metal can be cut into easily with sandblasting. This is not the case with iron beds as they are much thicker material.
Three quarter iron beds were much in demand in the late 1800’s as most people either made their own coverlets, etc. or they could be purchased just about any where. Today they can still be purchased, but generally from select companies, rather than any department store. Three quarter beds are 48 inches wide and need a custom mattress. Again these mattresses can also be purchased…but generally from a mattress company rather than department stores. Sometimes the length of the bed is also shorter than the modern bed.
There are many reproductions of the iron bed…..but none can encompass the distinct beauty or durability of the Authentic Antique Iron Bed. True antique iron beds stand in a honor roll all their own.
Author: Mary H. Sigman, Loading Dock Antiques
About the Author
Mary H. Sigman has been, and is still active in the selling of antiques for the past 48 years. Specializing in the sell of antique iron beds. Author of several articles over the past years, and considered an authority on iron beds.
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January 13, 2012 5:23 pm 
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