FURNITURE 

Randel & Meads
Albany, New York
Mahogany, pine, poplar and brass, 1802-08
AIHA Collection: Bequest of the Estate of Marjorie D. Rockwell
[Mrs. Richard C. Rockwell]

As merchants, artisans and farmers became full participants in the emerging American market economy during the 19th century, they created a growing demand for consumer goods. Cabinetmakers like William Randell and John Meads of Albany built an assortment of furniture to meet this demand. They employed journeymen and apprentices making tables, chairs, beds and washstands for people of every taste and economic condition.