George Bush brought to the White House a dedication to traditional American values and a determination to direct them toward making the United States "a kinder and gentler nation." In his Inaugural Address he pledged in "a moment rich with promise" to use American strength as "a force for good."
When it came time to choose an executive chair for his desk in the Oval Office, President Bush turned to the Kittinger Company, manufacturer of traditional American furniture since 1866. The Kittinger Executive Swivel Chair, a symbol of tasteful design and superior craftsmanship, served our 41st President for four years.
The Kittinger Company of Buffalo, New York, was founded right after the end of the Civil War, committed the firm to the highest standards and, by implication, challenged its competitors to do the same. The company grew and prospered, as it entered the office furniture market, and in 1937 Kittinger was awarded an exclusive license to manufacture furniture reproductions for the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. The company's importance to the history of Western New York was formally recognized in 1977, by the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society.
Upholstering materials and techniques used to hand-craft the Kittinger Executive Swivel Chair are as old as the company itself. Hundreds of tacks are individually placed by hand, and material is hand-sewn. The frame is constructed of solid maple, ideal because of its durability, and the exposed wood surface is mahogany to complement the natural leather.
Once the frame is assembled, coiled springs are embedded in the seat for support. Springs are interlocked and hand-tied in eight ways to add strength and ensure comfort. Then the springs are covered with six layers of cushioning.
Patient, skilled attention to the smallest of details makes the Kittinger Executive Swivel Chair a masterpiece, worthy of its place in White House history.