September 1, 2015
This month we have a unique recent acquisition to share. It’s a Danner revolving bookcase. While the ad below indicates it’s available in several different woods, this one is Golden Oak
Danner Revolving Oak 3 stack Bookcase with adjustable book rest
John Danner patented the pivot and post revolving bookcase in 1873; it was touted for its compactness and convenience. You can view more examples of Danner’s work here. A native of Canton, OH, he established the John Danner Manufacturing Company there in 1876, where it operated until 1916 when it was purchased by the Gillian Manufacturing Company. Originally designed to hold 32 volumes of the Encyclopedia, Danner won a gold medal for his bookcase at the Paris Exhibition in 1878. Furniture dealers W.B. Moses & Son, who operated Washington, DC from the Civil War until 1935, wrote, “Your Revolving Book Cases are very generally introduced in the various offices in this city, and all are delighted with their utility, neatness and durability.” If they could only see how it looks after 100+ years!! See additional photos of the bookcase and other recent acquisitions at Recent Acquisition.
If you are looking for an excuse to visit the store and none of the regular “attractions” (e.g., Wild Hare Hard Cider, Great Country Farms, the General Store, Dirt Farm Brewing & Bluemont Vineyard) are of interest, check out the Bluemont Fair on the 19th and 20th. That’s when Bluemont goes from being a quiet little town to a bustling place with something for everyone! There are vendors and entertainment, lots of food and beverages, and even competitions. Consider running the 10K, or if that’s not appealing, how about entering the pickle or pie competition? (Despite Bob’s aunt showing me her secrets, I still can’t make a pie crust, so definitely won’t be entering that one!) This year’s entertainment will include Irish dancing by Celtic Rhythm School in Leesburg on Saturday at 3 p.m. The Waterford Quilters Guild will also have their annual exhibit, which is always impressive. If you haven’t been to the Fair, it’s worth a try. If you have, you know how much fun it is! Please remember no pets are allowed at the Fair, so leave them at home during Fair weekend; we welcome pets at Iron Gate Antiques other time, though.
As for special hours this month, we will be closed on Labor Day (the 7th). We’ll also be opening at 1 p.m. instead of noon on Sunday, the 13th. And of course, the 19th and 20th will be the Fair, so while we welcome your visit that weekend, it’s not a great time for dropping off or picking up furniture. See you around Bluemont!
Lynne & Bob McCann