Hi Debra,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

The Chittenden & Eastman Company was founded in 1866 in Burlington, Iowa, by GM Todd and H. Baily; the name was changed to Chittenden & Eastman" in 1883 when HW Chittenden partnered with Edward P. Eastman. Initially, the company was a general furniture and household goods business. By the late 19th and early 20th Century, the company was a major furniture producer and wholesaler that made upholstered furniture, bedroom sets and household items, selling everything from chairs and cabinets to baby strollers and rugs. They had distribution across the US, particularly in the Midwest. By 1982, the company focused only on mattresses and bedding. Most labeled pieces were made from the late 1800s to mid 1900s (1890s-1950/60s).

A quintessential American furniture form, rocking chairs appeal because they combine comfort, motion, and emotional resonance. The gentle back-and-forth movement promotes relaxation, helping reduce stress and even aiding focus or sleep. Ergonomically, they distribute weight evenly and encourage subtle muscle engagement, making them comfortable for long նստing. Psychologically, rocking evokes soothing early-life experiences, which many people associate with safety and calm. Culturally, they carry nostalgia—porches, quiet evenings, caregiving moments—giving them symbolic warmth beyond function. They’re also versatile, fitting both traditional and modern interiors. In short, a rocking chair isn’t just furniture; it’s a calming ritual, a design icon, and a small, everyday escape.

The market is saturated with rocking chairs of every vintage and style and, with supply far overshadowing demand, prices are low for even those by the earliest known makers; at auction, most rarely exceed $50-75. It's worth noting that some retailers will ask higher prices for refurbished examples.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia