Unique Seats

Upstairs in the museum are what at first glance might appear to be regular chairs. One is a child’s highchair and the other a simple, straight-backed chair. But let’s take a closer look at not only the history of these chairs, but also at some of their unique features.

The Museum's multi-purpose valet chair and highchair

The highchair was donated to the museum by Nona Eberts. She lived to be 105 years old and lived all but one year in Meeker County. She was born in Greenleaf Township in 1879, the same year attributed to the highchair. She was a great asset to her community and was involved in many organizations, including the Meeker County Historical Society.

As for Nona’s highchair, it would have given young Nona the typical place to enjoy her meals, but it had a dual purpose. With a quick pull on a lever, the legs of the chair collapse and create a small rocking chair. The food tray remained and could now be used as a play place, complete with a soothing rock-a-bye motion. While Nona never married or had children, she had several nieces and nephews who might have used the highchair before it was donated to the museum.

The second chair belonged to Dr. George E Sherwood. He graduated from the University of Minnesota Medical School in 1894 and came to Meeker County later that year. In 1898, he established a hospital in Dassel, which is considered the first hospital in the county. He relocated to Kimball after a few years, but maintained his connection with Meeker County and Meeker County Hospital later in his career.

Besides his medical skills and knowledge, Dr. Sherwood was also well-traveled and could speak three foreign languages and understand two more. He would often share his home movies of his travels with others.

Among all of his accomplishments and traits, one might also assume that Dr. Sherwood was well-dressed. That’s because Sherwood’s chair at the museum is a valet chair. Most valet chairs offer a place to sit and a convenient place to hold your suitcoat. However, this chair’s original label explains some of its extra features. First, it can press one’s trousers. The chair back is made of two wood panels, joined by a hinge. The user simply lines up the pant seams, places the pant legs between the panels, and closes the panels tightly together for a time. Presto! We do have to admit, while this sounds convenient, we at the museum haven’t actually tried it and can’t help wonder if today’s iron would have a better result.

The deluxe valet chair also includes a shoe shine kit in the front drawer with equipment that fastens to the drawer. For added convenience, when the work is complete, the drawer includes a “Kept Clean Receptacle.” With a quick turn of the button, the bottom of the drawer drops away for easy cleaning.

Both of these chairs, and so much more, are on display at the Meeker County Museum at the G.A.R. Hall.