Hello Lisa.

Welcome back to another edition of THE PENCIL CASE! As always, each issue focuses on a theme to encourage a fresh look at garden design and graphics. This week, let’s explore the history and functionality of the widely popular Adirondack chair. 

ADIRONDACK CHAIR ROOTS

The story of the Adirondack chair starts in upstate New York in, you guessed it, the Adirondack mountains. Thomas Lee, Harvard graduate and law school drop out, left his wealthy lifestyle behind and found home and purpose in the serene landscapes of Westport, NY, a small town just off of Lake Champlain. But his tranquility fell short when faced with the uneven terrain surrounding his home. No chair would dare stand idle, so he set out to create a solution.

THE FIRST ADIRONDACK CHAIR

Thomas Lee soared through various prototypes before landing on a chair with wide armrests, a high back, and a slanted seat composed of a single plank of wood. Much different than the Adirondack chair we know today, but still upholding its purpose of staying level on sloped terrain. Having fulfilled his need, Lee allowed his friend Harry Bunnel to produce and sell the chairs to other townsfolk. It was officially patented in 1904 under the name Westport chair and the rest is history!

ADIRONDACK CHAIR INSPIRATION

Learn more in these articles about The History of the Adirondack Chair and in Trending Now: The Adirondack Chair.

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One of my favorite books that highlights the garden in smaller doses is GARDENTOPIA by Jan Johnsen and yes, one of those tiny doses discusses Adirondack chairs!

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Print out this COLORING SHEET and fill it in as you relax in your Adirondack chair.

LET'S DO THIS! 

Do you have Adirondack chairs in your garden? Tag me on Instagram or hit reply to this email and share a photo. I'd love to see your comfy garden seating.

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If you know someone that needs design inspiration, please feel free to share this newsletter. Anyone can subscribe right here. I also keep a VAULT of past issues in this secret location.

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Thanks for letting me visit your in-box. I look forward to seeing you again very soon!

All my best, 

Lisa 

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PAPER GARDEN WORKSHOP