Desk, Governor Jeff Davis

 
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Gov. Jeff Davis desk
Desk, Governor Jeff Davis
Gov. Jeff Davis desk
Gov. Jeff Davis desk

Desk, Governor Jeff Davis

Object number1979.064.00
Dateca 1880
Associated LocationLittle Rock, Arkansas
MediumWalnut, Vinyl, Pine
Dimensions57 7/8 x 37 5/8 in. (147 x 95.5 cm)
Credit LineOld State House Museum Collection
Terms
  • Desk
  • Desk
DescriptionA walnut fall-front writing desk with a crested top. It has a single drawer in the base and four turned legs with square shafts. The top has eight pigeon holes, three vertical openings and a small interior drawer. The writing area has vinyl covering and the interior has beige paper backing. The secondary wood is pine.

Originally used in the Senate Chamber of the old state capitol (Old State House), it was eventually used by Governor Jeff Davis in his office from 1901-1907 in the Old State House. The interior probably had two drawers at one time as both openings show evidence of drawer wear. The drawer fits the upper opening better. The finish is not original and has been refinished at least once, if not twice. It is an unusual construction as the writing surface is attached to the base by means of a 1" square strip with hinges attached. It is possible to remove the top while leaving the fall front writing surface attached to the base.

Jefferson "Jeff" Davis was born in Rocky Comfort, Arkansas on May 6, 1862. Davis served as the twentieth Governor of Arkansas from 1901 to 1907. Although his administration was said to have "produced more politics than government," Davis succeeded in building a new state house and reforming the penal system. Davis passed away on January 3, 1913 in Little Rock, Arkansas.
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Not on view
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