In 1886, Albert F. Karges, a first-generation German immigrant, invested $600 and began making moderately priced bedroom furniture of solid oak and walnut. At that time, the river port town of Evansville, Indiana was one of the largest hardwood furniture manufacturing centers in the world. The Karges Furniture Company is the sole survivor. Now, more than a hundred years later, Karges remains one of only a few family-owned and operated furniture manufacturers in America; hence the epithet, “The Last Great American Furniture Company.”

The Company prospered through the turn of the century, and Albert’s son Edwin F. Karges, Sr. joined the family business after World War I. He had a keen interest in European designs and traveled extensively in an effort to learn more about the old-world styles. Soon the Karges line took on a more classic look and began separating itself from its competitors as he began to develop his own ideas. Mr. “K”, active in the company for over 60 years, left elegant, timeless designs, that are still best sellers after 30 years.

CARVINGS: Many manufactures use only machine or spindle carvings while others touch up machine carving to add a bit of hand work. At Karges, we let the machine remove enough wood to faintly outline the carving shape. Then our hand carvers completely recarve all surfaces to attain a fully hand-carved piece. Look for crisp edges, undercuts, chisel marks, "imperfect" vein lines and signature. Most Karges pieces are signed by the carver. Look for initials stamped into the inside top of a leg, inside the left door frame or in some other unobtrusive place.

For the past several years Eddie and Joan have been greatly aided by Joan's daughter Gretchen Keith, V.P., who has worked in the business for 10 years and learned to love it passionately as her mother, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather before her. As the fifth generation’s representative, Gretchen is vowed to continue the amazing tradition of this family and this Company. Her love for the people, the product and the business help insure Karges Furniture’s future.

Over the decades, as competitors focused on cost-saving materials and quicker production methods, Karges refused to compromise quality for profit. This rich history and quality commitment strengthen the Company’s longstanding reputation and assure you that Karges-by-Hand is the best furniture you can buy.

Visit www.karges.com, look over their fine collections and let us know what you are looking for and we will give the best possible price and service on your selections.