Partners desks at stations

[nw-mailing-list at nwhs.org]

Frank,

The NWHS archives has N & W Dwg. D21247, dated 9/23/20, showing a version of
what the drawing terms a double desk, but what I also have heard referred to
as a partners' desk.  The desk in the drawing has three drawers on each side
of the leg space vs. two in the picture.  Also, the leg style is different,
but both the drawing and the picture show two pencil drawers just above the
upper corners of the leg space.

The drawing has a dimension table to cover four variations.  The width x
length dimension vary from 4' - 0" x 5' - 0" to 4' - 6" x 7' - 0".  One
version has a paneled top with "chase" leather, and one version has a solid
top.  One interesting note reads, "Inkwell stand furnished when specified."

These desk were shop-made and used in virtually all offices of all
departments over virtually the entire N & W.  Lower ranked employees shared
a double desk, but officials had one to themselves.  A secretary would
occupy the opposite side when taking dictation.

To order a copy of the drawing, call the Commissary number and request the
drawing by number.  The member price should be $2.00 plus shipping.

Reportedly there are several of these desks in private hands.  I am aware of
one previously used by the Foreman of the Car Departmen, Roanoke Shops that
was recently acquired from a former NS official in Roanoke by a bed and
breakfast establishment in Appomattox.

Gordon Hamilton


----- Original Message ----- 
From: <nw-mailing-list at nwhs.org>
To: "N&W Historical Society" <nw-mailing-list at nwhs.org>
Sent: Saturday, November 13, 2004 8:15 AM
Subject: Partners desks at stations


> November 13, 2004
>
> Hello, all:
>
> I understand that most N&W agent's offices had a
> "partners desk" for the agent and a clerk (if there
> was one).  Although the attachment is is a 1950s view
> of the new Front Royal station, the desk style in the
> foreground is what I am referring to.  I expect that
> thedesks and chairs are from an earlier period, even
> though they are in a new station.  This ns1115.jpg
> photo is from the N&W archival collection at
> Blacksburg.
>
> Has anyone seen other station interior views or
> personal experiences to confirm this?  Has anyone seen
> an original desk in a private collection or elsewhere
> than can be examined for dimensions and style?
>
> Please remember that train night is this evening at
> Boyce station, milepost H46.1.  If you can attend,
> there is a burger, chair, and presentation for you!
> Arrive as late as you need to; shows will go until at
> least midnight.
>
> Best wishes,
>
>
> =====
> Dr. Frank R. Scheer, Curator
> Railway Mail Service Library, Inc.
> f_scheer at yahoo.com
> (202) 268-2121 - weekday office
> (540) 837-9090 - weekend afternoons
> in the former N&W station on VA rte 723
> 117 East Main Street
> Boyce  VA  22620-9639
>


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