What Exactly is a Davenport, and Is It Different Than a Sofa?

The term “Davenport” can refer to two completely different types of furniture, which can be confusing for many. In the United States, the word “davenport” most commonly refers to a large, boxy couch or any upholstered furniture that is large enough to lie on comfortably. However, in Britain and among antique stores specializing in Victorian-era furniture, a Davenport refers to a style of writing desk. Let’s break down the two distinct meanings of “Davenport” and understand the origin of the name.

What is a Davenport Couch?

The original Davenport couch was designed and manufactured by A.H. Davenport & Company, established in the mid-19th century in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This company specialized in crafting high-end, custom furniture for affluent members of society. Davenport & Co. worked on several prestigious projects, including collaborating with the renowned architectural firm McKim, Mead, and White during renovations of the White House during President Theodore Roosevelt’s administration.

In the late 1800s, Davenport Furniture Company introduced the iconic Davenport sofa, which was large, boxy, and fully upholstered. Over time, the name “Davenport” became synonymous with all couches, much like how “Q-Tips” and “Kleenex” have become generic terms for cotton swabs and tissues, respectively.

It survives mostly in regional slang, particularly among older generations who remember the classic Davenport sofas from the mid-20th century.

What is a Davenport Desk?

On the other side of the Atlantic, a “Davenport” desk refers to a type of writing desk that originated in Great Britain during the late 18th century. This connection led to the alternative name for the piece, “ship captain’s desk.”

In addition to its hinged writing surface, a Davenport desk offered substantial storage in the form of drawers and cupboards, often concealed by a decorative panel. These storage sections formed the back of the desk, supporting much of its weight.

Davenport desks gained popularity during Britain’s late Georgian era and became highly fashionable during the Victorian period. If you’re looking to purchase an authentic Davenport desk, vintage furniture stores, antique shops, estate auctions, and specialty online retailers are the best places to find one.

Conclusion

The term “Davenport” is a bit of a historical puzzle, as it refers to two entirely different types of furniture—one being a large, boxy sofa in the U.S. and the other a sophisticated writing desk in Britain. Both pieces have fascinating histories rooted in craftsmanship, luxury, and functionality.

• Davenport Couch: Originally introduced by A.H. Davenport & Company, this sofa became synonymous with large, upholstered couches and sleeper sofas.