Food preparation was labor intensive for the early 20th century woman. It was typical to spend an entire day each week on baking alone. In 1898, The Hoosier Manufacturing Company, of Indiana, introduced a furniture product that would be embraced by homemakers across the country. This all-in-one kitchen work center became known as a Hoosier cabinet.
What Is a Hoosier Cabinet?
Made of Indiana hardwoods such as oak, this free-standing kitchen cabinet was large, sturdy, and often set on casters. It was promoted as a time and labor saving servant, with everything needed for cooking kept within easy reach. A basic model featured a pull-out porcelain-enameled countertop, large flour bin, built-in sifter, storage space for cookware, and a metal-lined bread drawer.
Magazine ads touted its health benefits, as homemakers could accomplish tasks using fewer footsteps, thereby saving their strength. Also praised was the easy-to-clean work surface that provided a more sanitary environment for food preparation. Prices ranged from about $12 to $19, with installment terms available.
Hoosier Popularity Spread Rapidly
The Hoosier concept became so popular that dozens of other Indiana companies began producing their own version of the cabinet. Although not true Hoosier-brand cabinets, the name "Hoosier" became a generic term to describe all of them.
Companies became quite competitive and kept adding more features. Some were equipped with cutting boards, glass storage canisters, spice racks, and even cookbook holders. Many had a tambour roll-type door to keep kitchen staples out of sight. In addition to the original stained finish, painted models were also offered in several different colors.
Hoosier popularity reached its peak by the mid-1920s and by then, millions had been sold. Demand began to decline during the 1930s when many families had difficulty making the payments on them. This was followed by the advent of built-in kitchen cabinets and before long the Hoosier craze was over.
Why Have a Hoosier Cabinet Today?
No longer needed for their original purpose, these cabinets can now be enjoyed for their vintage appeal. They recall a bygone era long before granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. They bring to mind cozy afternoons in Grandma's kitchen and the freshly baked goodies she would serve.
Not relegated to the kitchen anymore, Hoosiers can proudly be displayed in a dining room or family room. Their presence is hard to miss and they are a perfect venue for showcasing vintage kitchen collectibles. They are also useful for storage of glassware and dinnerware, and the large lower portion can be used to store magazines, photographs, or many other items.
Where to Find a Hoosier Cabinet
Over the years, many of these cabinets were simply discarded and are now becoming more difficult to find. Perhaps an elderly relative still has one in their basement or garage that they would be willing to part with. They can sometimes be found at auctions, estate sales, and antique stores. Check the classified ads in your local newspaper as well as Internet sites. Prices range from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000.
Don't be afraid to buy a fixer-upper and restore it yourself. With a little patience and elbow grease, the finished result is likely to be well worth the effort. Parts missing? Hardware and other parts can be found on the Internet. Prefer a new one? Beautiful reproductions are also available online, as well as kits to build one yourself.
Be warned, though, it's not unusual to become hooked on the Hoosier appeal. If you have one, you may find yourself looking around your home for space to add another.
Sources
- Loser, Tom. "What Is a 'Hoosier' Cabinet?" Uncle Tom's Hoosier Cabinets Nov. 1998.
- Seymour, Liz. "Efficiency Experts." Country Home May/June 1998: 142-144.
Marty Monroe - After earning a Bachelor's degree in Office Administration, Marty began writing on-the-job as a legal secretary and executive assistant. ...
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