Learn the history of roll-top desks.

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Origin and History of Roll Top Desks

The history of roll-top desks

A classic for more than a century

Since the 19th century, roll-top desks have become a popular and practical addition to many offices and homes.

What is a roll-top desk?

A roll-top desk is basically a desk that features an arched top which surrounds the writing surface and can be rolled closed. The surrounding chamber generally features several different shelves, slots, and holes, and possibly even a few drawers.

When was the first roll-top desk built?

The first American to develop and patent the roll-top desk that we've come to know today was Abner Cutler of Cutler Desk Company in 1850. The curved top that Cutler used has become a signature element in almost all roll-top desks.

Becoming a classic

Perhaps part of the reason that roll-top desks became so popular was that they could be mass-produced rather quickly. They quickly made their way into many offices across America.

However, at the beginning of the 20th century, the work environment began to change, and so did the furniture. Suddenly, the small shelves and drawers seemed obsolete as the number of papers and correspondences being used increased.

Staying a classic

Despite the fact that the small shelves and drawers of traditional roll-top desks made them seem obsolete, there was just something so charming and appealing that furniture makers began to update them to be more practical.

Today, there are several different types of roll-top desks available. While some are very simple, like the early ones, there are others that are specifically designed to hold and conceal a computer and its accessories.

A popular collector's item

Over the years, roll-top desks have become popular collector's items because of the different materials and styles used to construct them.