Historical Perspective

Far removed from the historical roots of fine cabinetmaking, J. L. Treharn may seem like an unlikely candidate to undertake the difficult task of preserving New England antiquities. Nonetheless, his collection of fine reproductions serves as a bridge connecting the present to the rich cabinet making traditions of the past.

In a small woodshop in Northeast Ohio, Robert Treharn taught his son, Jerry, the finer points of woodworking. A carpenter by trade, Robert instilled in his son a deep respect and admiration for early American cabinetmakers, who with but a few simple hand tools and their own skill, created furniture that has withstood the test of time.

Fascinated by the early cabinetmakers meticulous attention to detail and superior construction techniques, Jerry embarked on what would become a lifetime pursuit of building his own skill as a cabinetmaker.

Not unlike his father, Jerry maintained a small woodworking shop in his home. He gathered tools and honed his skills for nearly twenty years while working as a carpenter throughout Northeast Ohio. In 1985, as a large commercial construction job near completion, he decided to pursue furniture-making as a full time endeavor.

Drawing from the expertise of a local antique shop owner, Jerry Treharn established J. L. Treharn & Co. in early 1986. With the assistance of his retired uncle, Joseph Treharn, Jerry moved his modest tools collection from his home to a small rented building. He began with a few simple pieces, painstakingly reproduced from drawings and photographs of fine early American designs. Several shop owners in Ohio recognized his talent and agreed to display his work. With little experience and an abundance of dedication, he began to pursue the aspirations he developed many years before.

As the business grew in the late 1980's, Jerry's immediate family joined J. L. Treharn & Company. His wife Carolee, two daughters Sherry and Tracy, and his son Michael are instrumental in the day to day operations of the company. Having his family close at hand during the early years of the company helped shape the principle objective of J. L. Treharn & Company, Inc. True to it's heritage, the craftsmen of J. L. Treharn & Co. work to the best of their ability to construct furniture of superior quality that will be passed on proudly from generation to generation.

Design

Though appreciative of all eras of period furniture making, our designs are primarily influenced by the Queen Anne and Chippendale Periods. We are particularly fond of the flowing, graceful lines, intricate carvings and simple but elegant legs characteristic of the Queen Anne and Chippendale eras. Our Bonnet top Secretary is an excellent example of the Chippendale period of design. Notice the subtle graduation of drawer sizes. Also characteristic of the era are the arched, raised panels on the doors and the fan carving on the stepped serpentine interior of the Secretary.

Material

Beautiful furniture begins with quality materials. We use only the finest cherry, maple and tiger maple in our designs. Our construction process begins with the selection of perfectly seasoned wide boards, meticulously matched for wood grain. As a final touch we apply historically correct, solid brass hardware or wooden knobs turned on our vintage Mattison Lathe.

Construction

Joinery, or the manner in which a piece is fastened together, quickly differentiates a handmade piece from a mass-produced piece. Our furniture is made utilizing time-honored construction techniques. To ensure many years of use, our chest cases and drawers are dovetailed. Drawer bottoms are constructed of solid wood and chamfered. Table legs are attached to table skirts with a mortise and tenon joint, locked in place by two hardwood pegs. These methods are arduous, but add value and ensure generations of use.

• Home  | 
• About Us  | 
• Contact Us  | 
• Furniture  | 
• Design Services  | 
• Home Décor  | 
• Delivery Charges