Why Were Sofas Called Davenports

Why Were Sofas Called Davenports?

Sofas, the comfortable and ubiquitous living room staples, have a rather curious history behind their alternative name: Davenport. The term has its roots in the 18th century and a furniture craftsman named Abraham Davenport.

Born in 1715, Davenport was a skilled cabinetmaker from Massachusetts. He became renowned for his innovative designs and exceptional craftsmanship, particularly in the area of furniture making. Among his creations was a unique chaise longue, which he affectionately called a "couch."

Davenport's chaise longue differed significantly from the traditional sofas of the time. It featured a sloping back and a comfortable cushioned seat, making it an ideal piece for napping or lounging. The design proved immensely popular, and orders for "Davenport's couches" began to flood in.

As the demand for Davenport's couches grew, so did the need for a more convenient and practical name. The term "couch" was already in common use, and adding "Davenport" to it served as a testament to the original designer's ingenuity.

In the early 19th century, the term "Davenport" became synonymous with sofas in general. Davenport's designs had set a new standard for comfort and elegance, and other furniture makers began to adopt and adapt his ideas. As a result, "Davenport" became a generic term for sofas, especially those with a chaise longue-like appearance.

By the mid-19th century, the term "Davenport" was firmly entrenched in the American lexicon. It continued to be widely used until the early 20th century, when the term "sofa" gradually became more prevalent. However, the legacy of Abraham Davenport lives on, with "Davenport" remaining a popular alternative name for sofas in some parts of the United States.

So, the next time you sink into the cushions of your comfortable sofa, take a moment to remember Abraham Davenport, the ingenious cabinetmaker whose innovative design gave rise to this iconic piece of furniture.