Paine Furniture Building // 1914

Located on Arlington Street between St. James and Stuart streets in Boston’s Back Bay, this gorgeous masonry commercial block stands as a testament to the amazing architecture built in Boston in the early 20th century. The Paine Furniture Building was constructed in 1914 to house the extensive showroom, offices, and manufacturing operations of the Paine Furniture Company. Founded in 1835, the company was at one time the largest furniture manufacturer and dealer in New England and had a nationwide business. The company was founded by Leonard Baker Shearer, who was joined in business in 1845 by John S. Paine. Upon the death of Shearer in 1864, the name of the firm was changed to Paine’s Furniture Company, a name which stuck until the company closed in 2000. The architects for the building, Densmore & LeClear, were very busy in the early decades of the 20th century and designed many iconic buildings nearby and in towns surrounding Boston through the 1940s.

2 thoughts on “Paine Furniture Building // 1914

  1. Gail's avatar Gail October 6, 2024 / 11:43 pm

    I’m trying to date a dining table I have made by Paine furniture co. It is 54 in round and has six 11 in leafs stored in wooden boxes. On one of the boxes it has written on it P-54 #00 10 ft.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Buildings of New England's avatar Buildings of New England October 7, 2024 / 11:29 am

      I wouldn’t be able to assist with this, but maybe an antique dealer could help! Alternatively, check for old catalogues of the company’s items, it should be in one!

      Like

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