The
popularity of iron beds became an American phenomenon in the mid 1800's and
reached its peak around the turn of the century. Economic success and the rising
standard of living created a large demand for strong and attractive bed frames.
The period of iron bed development coincided with in increase in health awareness.
A strange but frequent selling point for metal beds was that they provided better
hygiene than wooden beds. Bed bugs were rampant way back when and having a metal bed insured
an environment for better health. Your wooden sleigh bed might have looked comfy in 1888
but bugs found it quite luxurious as well. Luckily, times have changed substantially.
All sales gimmicks aside, that didn't mean that iron beds were not created with beauty, quality
and durability in mind. There were small foundries dotted across America taking pride
in the unique designs and sturdiness of their beds. In an outburst of creativity, the
variety of hand-forged ironwork, elaborate castings, careful proportioning and finishes
seem to reflect the spirit and energy of each passing era. Unfortunately, World War I
quickly put an end to this expansion of this creative industry as most iron and other
metals were directed to the war effort; specialized iron bed foundries became a precious few.
One such company www.charlesprogers.com
has been continuing to bring America the finest beds since 1855.
As a serious art form, iron beds have always played a role in setting the correct tone
for the traditional bedroom. Today, authentic iron beds have become one of most important
aspects of contemporary design. Mixing old and new with an eclectic approach has allowed
the incorporation of artistic elements from every time period to bring out the best in
modern design. Since the industrial revolution, artisan metal workers have been designing
unique beds based on their individual vision in the context of their times. Reflected in
the skill of the design and in the very materials themselves, authentic iron beds can
impart this presence of quality and style to any modern bedrooms.
