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The Lazy Days of Summer

by Kelly klein

What comes to mind when you think about the lazy days of summer? Perhaps you look forward to the opportunities to unwind at the end of a long day or a backyard cookout shared with family and friends. I'm sure few of us equate that relaxation with a canvas or hard plastic chair. We want comfort combined with durability. We want a place to relax that stands the test of time and beckons to us again and again. And in this environmentally aware society, we want something that respects the planet. What better choice than the famous and widely popular Adirondack chair? adirondack-chair- available at unfinished furniture stores

Photo by Kelly Klein

Adirondack chairs have an interesting history that dates back over 100 years. In 1903, a New York man named Thomas Lee had a large family and a shortage of outdoor furniture for them to use during family gatherings. He decided to nail boards together in different ways to create some outdoor furniture and sought the feedback of his family on which they preferred. The feedback he received led him to a chair with a slanted back and seat and large armrests. The Adirondack chair was born.

Thomas brought his idea to carpenter Larry Bunnell, who saw great profit potential in this new style of chair and in 1905, without the knowledge of Thomas Lee, Bunnell acquired the patent for what became one of the most widely recognizable pieces of furniture in history.

Originally called the Westport chair, named for the town where it was first invented, the name eventually changed to the now-familiar Adirondack chair, in recognition of the larger region of its origin. The chair's interesting history is even featured at the Adirondack Museum in Blue Mountain Lake, New York.

Cedar is a popular choice for these chairs as it will weather to a beautiful silver color over time and thus does not require paint or stain. When shopping for an Adirondack chair, ask questions about the type of wood used and whether or not it's been treated.

Treated wood contains toxic compounds used to protect the wood and kill termites. Cedar is naturally resistant to insects and the outdoor elements, making it a safer and more environmentally sound choice for you, your family and the planet.  Green Waterbased finishes from General Finishes

Today chairs are also available in sustainable woods at real wood furniture stores throughout the country, protecting the world's valuable forests. Add today's "green" water based exterior finishes for a updated look, and you have the best of both worlds!

Wouldn?t an earth-friendly, comfortable chair with a rich history make a wonderful addition to your backyard? With spring here and summer on its way, it sounds like the perfect time to find Adirondack chairs for your next family gathering.

Kelly Klein is a freelance writer who enjoys writing on a wide range of topics. You can find her blog at http://kellyswritelife.blogspot.com

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