A Look Back: The Grand Rapids Furniture Industry Legacy

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Grand Rapids isn’t just famous for beer—it was once the “Furniture City” of the world. The city’s furniture-making legacy dates back to the 19th century and is still felt today.

In the 1800s, Grand Rapids became a hub for high-quality furniture production. Companies like American Seating and Steelcase started here, crafting everything from church pews to office chairs. The Grand Rapids Furniture Market, which began in 1878, was one of the largest trade shows in the world, drawing buyers from across the globe.

By the 20th century, Grand Rapids was producing both mass-market and luxury furniture, making the city synonymous with craftsmanship. Today, you can still see this legacy at places like the Grand Rapids Public Museum, which features exhibits on the industry’s history. Learn more about the furniture industry here.