The beautiful furniture of the 18th and 19th centuries depended on the skill of the craftsman and the quality of the wood. Solid pieces of natural hardwood were selected, and the piece was uniquely designed according to individual needs.

The artist would use blemishes in the grain to enhance the overall design, and the knowledge of how wood would move over time was considered. Traditional tooling and construction by hand gave charm and a personal feel to each piece as it was shaped by the artist. The full elegance of the furniture would be revealed as shellac, varnish, oil and wax were hand rubbed to enhance and protect the finished work of art.

One of the finest furniture makers of the time was Samuel Loomis (1748-1814) whose work graced homes in the Hartford, Windsor and Colchester areas of Connecticut. He was a master craftsman whose c.1775 chest on chest can be viewed at the Hartford Atheneum.

The legacy of his work is carried on today by his descendant, Russ Loomis of Ashfield, Massachusetts. Mr. Loomis designs original pieces which remain true to the period, while fitting his clients' needs. Using hand tools, he shapes, joins and finishes each piece of furniture in the same way his ancestor did.

Traditional workmanship and individual design creates these unique and distinctive pieces of furniture. The legacy of Samuel Loomis is the driving force in Russ' life, and his mission is to design and create furniture which reflects that love and that legacy.