This is an incredible bookcase headboard from designer Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville. We have fallen in love with this here at the shop. Not much is known about Merton Gershun but the glory of his many marvelous designs for American of Martinsville. This line is called Urban Suburban and was produced in the 1960s. But you would never know that by its timeless design. I adore its symmetry, and usefulness. This sleek light maple bed is perfect for a guest bedroom or a teens room. Just add a Hollywood frame and a mattress and you are ready to go.
Little was available online about Merton Gershun but his designs for American of Martinsville are incredible and speak to his talent as a furniture designer. He was born August 7, 1909 and passed on January 3, 1989. It seems he spent the entirety of his career designing for American of Martinsville. Although not as currently well-known as other mid-century modern designers, I feel his time is coming.
American of Martinsville was established in 1906 in Martinsville, Virginia by tobacco manufacturers, Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee. Early on they produced only bedroom furniture. In the 1920s they expanded their production to include dining room furniture and by the end of the 1950s was vast in their offerings in purpose and style. With the expansion of travel and roadside motels, they began offering a mass-produced line for the many motels popping up across the country and continued this through the end of the 20th century. In 2000 they were acquired by La-Z-Boy Incorporated and today specialize in furniture for the hotel and healthcare industries.
I’ve just been thinking…the heck with your kids and guests…with today’s smaller living quarters…you may just need this for yourself!!
