Oh, my goodness! What an incredible pair of mid-century modern Lane step tables. When I started in this vintage furniture business around 1989, people, collectors, would say…”Oh, that’s just Lane.” Now, 30 years later and those same people, collectors, are saying…”Wow! That’s Lane. My what a little time will do. But these tables are glowing examples as to why. Their beautiful walnut veneer with inlaid walnut burl center squares are simply fabulous. Plus, their iconic 1950s step table styling. They are the perfect pair to place at either end of your mid-century modern sofa holding the perfect pair of lamps.
Lane was founded in 1912 by Edward Hudson Lane at the age of 21, upon his father’s suggestion after he, John Edward Lane, bought a small packing-box plant in Altavista, Virginia. Edward procured a loan and converted the factory to make cedar chests and named it The Standard Red Cedar Chest Co. Sales were good and the company expanded. But during WWI, with the banning of rail freight deemed non-essential, they began making pine ammunition boxes. This is notable as it led to an assembly line which was revolutionary and became the first moving conveyor assembly system in the furniture industry. After the war with sales still increasing Ed Lane decided he could risk giving the company his name and changed it to The Lane Co. in 1922. They began advertising and an ambitious program of research and development leading to hiring their first staff designer and sales force. They made it through the depression with a lot of hard work and made it again during WWII when they converted to providing items needed for wartime. After WWII, a complete design department was added. They were innovative in creating new materials. One called Lanewood which was produced from waste wood. 1951 brought the making of occasional tables. Then in 1956 the acquisitions began of other companies to add case goods and upholstered furnishings. With production of their mid-century-modern furnishings, the company continued to grow and expand until in 1987 it was acquired by Interco, Inc. But, for 75 years the Lane family of Altavista, Virginia ran the business with Edwards son, Bernard Bell (B.B.) Lane, being at the helm at the end. Lane is still to this day a leading U. S. furniture manufacturer.
We have fallen in love with this beautiful pair here at our shop. You will too. Make them yours!
