Pa’s old sofa evokes many memories from my childhood. I remember visiting my grandparents at their farm and being fascinated by the ramshackle old cottage on their property. The cottage was always locked, abandoned many years ago when the new homestead was built.

After my grandparents died, our extended family gathered at the family farm. The old farmhouse held all sorts of memories. As we packed and sorted, we shared stories about my grandparents, laughing at some of the tales.

My cousin and I walked from the homestead, up the hill. We entered the original cottage that had been our great-great-grandparents’ home.

Years of dust and dirt formed a blanket over everything; spiders had spun their webs. There were piles of boxes, someone’s treasures from times past. Amongst the jumble we discovered an old leather sofa, a Chesterfield with wide rolled arms wrapping around the back.

Pa’s sofa was cracked and badly faded, the leather dried and split beyond repair; it had all the hallmarks of a classic sofa usually found in grand homes. We will never know how such a beautiful settee came to be in a small Victorian worker’s cottage.

When new, Pa’s sofa would have been right at home in a gentleman’s club or smoking room. Sadly, it could not be restored. Instead, I bought a similar sofa that one day may become a family heirloom.

Chesterfield sofas are synonymous with classic design – I’m a big fan. They are seen in hotel lobbies and reception rooms all over the world. During the Victorian era these sofas were upholstered in dark leather with horsehair stuffing, and buttons deeply tufted. Contemporary Chesterfield sofas are made in a variety of brightly coloured velvets and linens.

Regardless of your interior, whether it is contemporary or traditional, a Chesterfield will not only add comfort but style to your home.

Published in the March 2022 Issue of The Trentham Trumpet