When Was the Rocking Chair Invented?

The rocking chair, one of the most relaxing types of chairs, has a long history. It’s interesting to learn how this chair came to be and how it has become so popular worldwide!

The Early Beginnings

The exact date of the rocking chair’s invention isn’t entirely clear, but most historians believe it started in North America in the early 18th century, around the early 1700s. People in North America and Europe had already been using regular wooden chairs, but it was in North America that someone had the bright idea to add curved pieces to the legs, allowing the chair to rock back and forth.

Who Invented the Rocking Chair?

Although people may think Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s Founding Fathers, invented the rocking chair, this is a myth. While he enjoyed using rocking chairs, he didn’t actually create them. Instead, it seems that ordinary people started adding rockers to regular chairs on their own.

The Rise in Popularity

The rocking chair became widely popular throughout the 1800s. During this time, people used them not only at home but also on porches, in parks, and even in hospitals. The gentle rocking motion was thought to be calming, making it ideal for relaxing, reading, and even soothing babies to sleep.

Types of Rocking Chairs

As time went on, different styles of rocking chairs appeared. Some were simple, made of wood, while others had cushions for added comfort. The classic wooden rocking chair remains a favorite, but there are now many types of rocking chairs to fit different styles and needs.

The Modern Rocking Chair

Today, the rocking chair is still loved by people all over the world. It’s available in many forms, from traditional wood to modern designs with cushioned seats and even gliders, which are a type of rocking chair that moves back and forth without using curved rockers.

The rocking chair may be simple, but its history and comforting design have made it a beloved piece of furniture in many homes.