The Adirondack chair is one of the most iconic pieces of outdoor furniture. Known for its wide armrests, slanted seat, and tall back, it has become a staple on porches, patios, and lakeside retreats across America.
But why are they called Adirondack chairs? The answer lies in a fascinating mix of geography, innovation, and evolution that has shaped this beloved design over the past century.
All About Adirondack Chair and Its Name
Adirondack Chair Name Origin: A Scenic Beginning
The origin of the name of the Adirondack chair dates back to the early 1900s in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State. This rugged and scenic region, famous for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation, provided both the name and inspiration for the chair’s creation. The design needed to be sturdy enough to handle uneven ground while offering comfort and relaxation—something that aligned perfectly with the laid-back lifestyle of mountain retreats.
The term “Adirondack” is more than a location; it captures the essence of the chair’s purpose. Vacationers needed a chair that allowed them to enjoy the outdoors for hours without sacrificing support, and that’s exactly what this design delivered.
Thomas Lee and the First Design
The Adirondack chair’s origin can be traced back to Thomas Lee, a man who vacationed with his family in Westport, a town near the Adirondack Mountains. Around 1900, Lee experimented with various chair designs to offer comfort on the sloped, rocky terrain. After several prototypes, he arrived at a design that used 11 wooden planks and had a unique feature: wide, flat armrests that could hold a drink or book.
This first version of the chair had a slightly reclined back and a deep seat, making it ideal for lounging outdoors. Lee’s intent wasn’t to commercialize the product, but simply to give his family something comfortable to sit on while enjoying the mountainous views.
Harry Bunnell and the Patent Twist
Though Thomas Lee created the design, it was his friend Harry Bunnell, a local carpenter, who recognized its market potential. In 1904, Bunnell applied for a patent—without Lee’s involvement—and began producing the chairs commercially, calling it the “Westport Chair.” This was named after the town where it was built and sold.
The original chairs were made of hemlock or other local woods and painted dark green or brown to blend in with the natural surroundings. Despite its official name, the design became so associated with the Adirondack region that the public gradually began referring to it as the Adirondack chair instead. This shift in terminology helped shape the chair’s broader identity and eventual rise to icon status.
Evolution of the Adirondack Chair Design
The Adirondack chair design history didn’t stop at Bunnell’s version. As years passed, various craftsmen and companies made their own modifications to improve comfort and manufacturing efficiency. A major change came in 1938 when Irving Wolpin patented a rounded-back version with a contoured seat. This enhanced ergonomics while maintaining the rustic aesthetic.
Today, you can find Adirondack chairs made from wood, plastic, resin, or recycled materials. These modern versions continue to pay tribute to the original purpose: a comfortable, stylish outdoor seat that stands up to the elements.
Why Are They Called Adirondack Chairs Today?
While the first patent labeled it the “Westport Chair,” the name Adirondack Chair eventually won out. This happened for two reasons: the chair’s popularity throughout the Adirondack region and the general association of its design with mountain leisure and rustic comfort. Over time, the question “Why are they called Adirondack chairs?” became less about trademarks and more about cultural identity.
The chair’s name evolved as it spread beyond Westport. It became a staple in cabins, lake houses, and cottages across the U.S. The term “Adirondack” began to resonate more with buyers. They saw the chair as a symbol of outdoor relaxation, not just a product tied to one town.
Adirondack Chair History in American Culture
The Adirondack chair’s history has become deeply entwined with North American outdoor living. From state parks to luxury resorts, the chair is synonymous with peaceful moments and scenic views. It’s been featured in films, art, and even political photo ops, cementing its role as more than just a piece of furniture.
Its classic silhouette is instantly recognizable, and the chair’s simplicity is a key part of its charm. This is furniture that doesn’t chase trends; it sets them. Generations of families have sat in Adirondack chairs by campfires and lakes, creating lasting memories in a design that dates back over 100 years.
Comparisons and Clarifications
To understand the true uniqueness of the Adirondack chair, it’s helpful to compare it with other outdoor furniture trends. For example, while modern seating often focuses on minimalism and mass production, Adirondack chairs remain rooted in craftsmanship and comfort. This is a design with a story.
Wrapping It Up
The Adirondack chair’s lasting popularity is no accident. It combines smart design with a rich cultural backstory that continues to resonate with people today. The Adirondack chair’s origin lies not just in the planks of wood or the angle of its seat, but in the lifestyle it represents: one of simplicity, nature, and rest.
Understanding the Adirondack chair’s design history is like opening a window into early 20th-century innovation—when necessity and comfort gave birth to an American classic. The evolution of the name and the design itself tells a larger story about how utility and place can come together to shape identity.
So, the next time you sit back in one of these iconic chairs, remember: you’re not just lounging; you’re taking part in a century-old tradition born in the mountains, carried through generations, and enjoyed by millions. And now, thanks to its widespread appeal and iconic look, the Adirondack chair continues to be a symbol of American outdoor living.
If you want to get your hands on a POLYWOOD Adirondack Chair in Colorado Springs. Browse the collection on our website today and place the order for your favorite piece now.
