Shown is one of a pair of 184-year-old antique loveseats. They have just been added to the “60 Year Anniversary Exhibit” in the Botetourt Museum of History & Culture thanks to Deputy Mason and the trusties. Their upholstery is sturdy brown fabric and the frame is carved walnut. Beginning in the 18th and 19th centuries, two-seater sofas were designed as courting furniture for couples to hold private conversations.
They were donated in 1966 by Harriet Fillinger, Richard Irvin Rush and Richard Marion Rush for the opening of the Botetourt History Museum in Fincastle. Miss Fillinger thought that they were a wedding present for her grandparents, Andrew Fillinger and Hulda Dunn Hale. Their relatives came to the colonies as early as 1738.
~ Botetourt County Museum of History & Culture
