Secretary, ca.1865

Made by Ernst F. Gehlman, Springfield, IL
Renaissance Revival style
Walnut

This combination bookcase and desk was made for Wellington Birthier Huffaker, a wealthy Sangamon County farmer, for $200. The piece was used in the Huffaker home, "Fancy Point," near New Berlin. Ernst Gehlman, the maker, came to Sangamon County from Germany about 1849. Gehlman was a contractor as well as a cabinetmaker. He constructed buildings on the University of Illinois campus and many homes in and around Springfield as well as the Huffaker home.

Gift of the James C. Huffaker family, Carson City, NV (745072)

Furniture | Wood

© Illinois State Museum 31-Dec-96