Business Details
We are the owners of RVP~1875, a historical furniture shop and museum located in Jefferson, Iowa, with over 28 years of dedicated experience in the craft. Our founder, a Master Furniture Maker, has personally built over 1300 pieces of historically accurate furniture using only the tools, techniques, and finishes used in 1875 Iowa. We maintain a deep commitment to historical accuracy, housing one of the largest working sets of 19th-century woodworking tools, including an 1860s foot-powered lathe and over 650 different hand planes. Our problem-solving approach centers on preserving Iowa history through authentic craftsmanship and sharing that knowledge with every visitor. We hold ourselves to the highest professional standards, a dedication recognized by the Iowa Tourism Office and the Travel Federation of Iowa.
Our client relationships are built on transparency, allowing guests to observe our working museum and the meticulous creation of each prototype piece. We take immense pride in offering an educational experience that connects patrons directly with the art of historical furniture making. Our continuous pursuit of excellence ensures that every piece we create honors the legacy of 19th-century artisans. We are committed to fostering an appreciation for traditional woodworking through classes, tours, and hands-on apprenticeships. Ultimately, our mission is to preserve and teach the enduring techniques of a bygone era.
Our client relationships are built on transparency, allowing guests to observe our working museum and the meticulous creation of each prototype piece. We take immense pride in offering an educational experience that connects patrons directly with the art of historical furniture making. Our continuous pursuit of excellence ensures that every piece we create honors the legacy of 19th-century artisans. We are committed to fostering an appreciation for traditional woodworking through classes, tours, and hands-on apprenticeships. Ultimately, our mission is to preserve and teach the enduring techniques of a bygone era.
Highlights and features
- We offer over 28 years of specialized historical furniture making experience.
- We have built over 1300 pieces using authentic 1875 tools and techniques.
- Our shop features over 650 different historical hand planes.
- We display over 130 prototype pieces, each with documented historical significance.
- We have earned multiple Iowa tourism and retail excellence awards.
Services
Historical Furniture Making
We craft historically accurate furniture using only the tools, techniques, and finishes utilized in 1875 Iowa. With over 28 years of experience, we have built over 1300 pieces for collectors and history enthusiasts. Each custom commission ensures an authentic connection to 19th-century craftsmanship and Iowa heritage.
Museum Tours
We offer guided tours of our working museum housed in the century-old Milligan Lumber Grain & Coal building. Visitors can view one of the largest working sets of 19th-century woodworking tools anywhere, including an 1860s foot-powered lathe. This experience provides deep insight into historical Iowa craftsmanship.
Woodworking Classes
We provide hands-on classes teaching the art of 1875 furniture making to dedicated students and history buffs. Our curriculum covers traditional techniques using authentic period tools and materials. Participants gain practical skills and a profound appreciation for 19th-century artisan woodworking.
Apprenticeships
We offer highly sought-after apprenticeships for individuals committed to mastering traditional historical woodworking. Apprentices work directly under a Master Furniture Maker using period-accurate methods. This program preserves endangered craft skills for future generations of artisans.
Custom Showroom Browsing
We invite clients to browse our showroom displaying over 130 prototype furniture pieces in person. Each item features a documented story of historical significance tied to the era. This service allows customers to appreciate the artistry and detail before commissioning custom work.
