At Glenn Furniture, we are proud to carry forward one of the most fascinating legacies in fine furniture design — the Wooton Desk. Known in the 19th century as the “King of Desks,” the Wooton desk stood as a symbol of craftsmanship, innovation, and prestige. Today, through our workshop in Indonesia, we continue this tradition by creating custom versions and faithful replicas of these remarkable pieces, blending history with modern artistry.
The History of Wooton Desks
The Wooton Desk Company was founded in 1870 in Indianapolis, Indiana, by William S. Wooton. These desks quickly became renowned for their ingenious design and intricate craftsmanship.
- Wooton desks were sometimes called “cabinet secretaries” because of their elaborate interiors. When opened, they revealed dozens — sometimes hundreds — of small compartments, cubbyholes, and drawers designed for meticulous organization.
- They were marketed as tools of productivity and status, appealing to professionals, clergy, and businessmen during America’s Gilded Age.
- So highly regarded were these desks that owners included industrialists, politicians, and even royalty. Their presence in a home or office symbolized not just wealth, but order and intellect.
Although the original Wooton Desk Company ceased production by the late 19th century, the mystique of these desks has never disappeared. Collectors and historians continue to value them as masterpieces of American furniture-making.
Glenn Furniture’s Revival
At Glenn Furniture, we saw the timeless appeal of the Wooton desk and made it our mission to bring these iconic designs back to life.
- Custom Replicas: We reproduce the grandeur of the original designs, respecting historical accuracy while ensuring durability through modern joinery and finishing techniques.
- Tailored Versions: For clients seeking a personal touch, we create custom adaptations — from adjusted dimensions to additional compartments or integrated modern functionality.
- Container Orders: A custom Wooton Desk can be added to a container-sized order of Glenn Furniture, allowing clients to blend this historic showpiece with broader furnishing needs.
Craftsmanship & Legacy
Our workshop blends traditional woodworking skills with premium materials, ensuring each Wooton desk we produce is as much a piece of art as it is functional furniture. Every drawer, hinge, and compartment is designed with care — just as William S. Wooton intended more than 150 years ago.
When you commission a Wooton Desk from Glenn Furniture, you aren’t just buying a desk — you’re bringing a piece of living history into your home or office.
Why Choose Glenn Furniture
- Historical authenticity: Respect for the original 19th-century designs.
- Customization: Options to personalize every detail.
- Global reach: With representatives in the U.S., Norway, Australia, and Indonesia, we arrange orders worldwide.
- Crafted with pride: Our artisans have decades of experience producing heirloom-quality furniture.
At Glenn Furniture, the Wooton Desk is more than a product. It is a bridge between past and present — a celebration of American ingenuity, reborn through international craftsmanship.
For inquiries about custom replicas or tailored designs, please contact us at enquiry@glenn-furniture.com