"At best, a reproduction is only a substitute for the original, an imitation. However, if the craftsmanship is skillful and the craftsman is in tune with the Shaker spirit, there is beauty and great satisfaction in the results. He is projecting into the present the inspiration of the past."

I have been building furniture in my own shop since 1979. During this time, I have had the opportunity to build some great pieces for many wonderful people. This website offers just a sampling of some of the more popular items I have done. From furnishing a bed and breakfast in Wisconsin, to building furniture for the executive floor of the Blue Cross/ Blue Shield office in Chicago, Shaker furniture has appealed to many people. In my reproductions, I try not only to capture the look but also the feeling of the original piece. Currently, I have access to several private and museum collections in which to study and reproduce.

Much of the material used in building each of the pieces comes from my family’s 1830 woodlot. By taking the dead or fallen trees and giving them a new life in a piece of furniture, I am able to use some of the best boards for my work.

As I reproduce each piece, I try to follow closely the construction details of the original. Where drawers were dovetailed, I hand-dovetail. If they were only nailed, I copy that. I hand turn all knobs and legs. Even the finish is imitated to match the original’s appearance today.

As you browse the website, remember that this represents only a fraction of my work. So if this sparks some ideas, contact me and we can further discuss them. Thank you for your interest in my work, I look forward to working with you.

Marty Travis
Fairbury, IL