Ferguson Furniture Desk

Q: I recently bought a desk and chair at a thrift store for $29. The front of the desk pulls down to reveal a storage compartment. There is a sticker under the desk that says “Ferguson Furniture, Hoboken, N.J.” Can you tell me how old it is?

A: Ferguson Brothers Manufacturing Co. was founded in 1898 by Harry and Louis Ferguson. The company was incorporated in Hoboken in 1900. It was run by members of the family until 1953, when it was sold to Sun-Glo Industries. Ferguson made inexpensive reproduction furniture and “furniture novelties,” including cedar chests, cellarettes, folding screens, folding tables, humidors and smoker stands. Your set sounds like a bargain.