The Goddard & Townsend Block Front Secretary (Image to left)
The Original Goddard &Townsend Block Front Secretary was made in 1765, in Newport, Rhode Island. It is considered one of the finest examples of early American furniture. They produced nine of these during that time, with one still at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts The original piece sold at auction for 12 million dollars, the highest price ever paid for a piece of furniture.
This photo is of an exact reproduction that James Betts built directly from measurements of the original. All the joinery, molding, and carving were done by hand using traditional tools and techniques. This reproduction was honored with the Best of Show Award at the " International Design in Wood Exhibition” in Delmar, California.
The measurements of this desk are, 40 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 96 inches tall.
When love and skill work together, expect a masterpiece...
John Ruskin
James Betts has more than 30 years experience as a woodworker. James specializes in making custom furniture and built in cabinets. In addition, James
creates distinguished antique reproductions, using
only hand tools and techniques that were utilized by
old master woodworkers.
Personal care and attention to detail is evident in each and every piece James creates. His love and passion for his work embrace the fundamental code of craftsmanship in the desire to do something well for its own sake.