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Is Cohasset Colonials Still in Business? A Deep Dive

No, Cohasset Colonials is no longer in business. The company, known for its classic reproduction furniture kits, ceased operations several years ago. While the brand name might occasionally surface in online marketplaces or secondhand sales, the original company is defunct.

Cohasset Colonials: A Legacy of Early American Style

Cohasset Colonials carved a significant niche for itself by offering high-quality, unfinished furniture kits inspired by Early American designs. These kits allowed customers to build their own historically accurate furniture pieces, fostering a sense of craftsmanship and connection to the past. The company’s product line ranged from tables and chairs to beds and chests, all meticulously crafted to reflect the simplicity and elegance of the colonial era. However, the business eventually succumbed to changing market dynamics and economic pressures.

The Demise of a Furniture Icon: Understanding What Happened

The exact reasons for Cohasset Colonials’ closure are multifaceted, but several key factors likely contributed to their downfall. The rise of mass-produced, affordable furniture from overseas eroded the market for domestically produced goods, even those with a unique selling proposition like build-it-yourself kits. Simultaneously, shifts in consumer preferences towards more modern styles may have reduced the appeal of traditional colonial designs. The company also faced increasing competition from other furniture manufacturers and online retailers. Ultimately, a combination of these elements led to the cessation of operations.

Cohasset Colonials FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

These Frequently Asked Questions provide answers to the most common queries about Cohasset Colonials, its products, and its current status.

1. Where can I buy Cohasset Colonials furniture now?

While the company is no longer operating, you might find Cohasset Colonials furniture through various avenues:

Online Auction Sites: Platforms like eBay and other auction sites are popular places to find pre-owned or unfinished Cohasset Colonials kits.
Secondhand Furniture Stores: Local antique and secondhand furniture stores sometimes carry pieces from the brand.
Estate Sales: Keep an eye out for estate sales in your area, as they can be a good source for vintage furniture, including Cohasset Colonials items.
Online Marketplaces: Sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace may feature individuals selling their Cohasset Colonials furniture.

2. Are Cohasset Colonials kits still available?

Finding new, unopened Cohasset Colonials kits can be challenging. Your best bet is to search online marketplaces and auction sites. However, be aware that these kits might be quite old, and the quality of the wood or hardware could be affected by age.

3. Where can I find instructions for assembling my Cohasset Colonials kit?

If you’ve acquired a kit without instructions, there are a few options:

Online Forums and Communities: Check online woodworking or furniture restoration forums. Someone may have a copy of the instructions for your specific kit.
Cohasset Colonials Collectors: Reach out to collectors or enthusiasts who specialize in Cohasset Colonials furniture. They might be able to provide you with a copy of the instructions.
Similar Furniture Kits: Look for instructions for similar furniture kits from other brands. While not identical, they can offer helpful guidance.

4. What type of wood was used in Cohasset Colonials furniture?

Cohasset Colonials typically used solid hardwoods in their furniture kits, often pine, maple, or birch. The specific type of wood depended on the piece and the desired finish.

5. How can I identify a genuine Cohasset Colonials piece?

Look for these identifying characteristics:

Original Packaging: If you have a kit, the original packaging will clearly display the Cohasset Colonials logo and product information.
Instruction Manual: The instruction manual will also feature the company’s logo and details.
Construction Style: Cohasset Colonials furniture is known for its traditional joinery techniques, such as dovetail joints and mortise-and-tenon joints.
Design: Familiarize yourself with the company’s catalog or online images to recognize their distinctive colonial designs.

6. Are there any companies that offer similar furniture kits today?

Yes, several companies still offer furniture kits inspired by traditional designs:

Real Wood Toys: Although known for wooden toys, also offer quality small furniture DIY kits.
HearthSong: Offer a variety of furniture kits and craft projects for children, some with a colonial-inspired aesthetic.
Online Craft Stores: Search for “furniture kits” on online craft stores to find a wider range of options, including some with a historical theme.

7. What is Cohasset, Massachusetts, known for?

While the furniture company is no longer active, the town of Cohasset, Massachusetts remains a charming coastal community known for its:

Picturesque Harbor: A beautiful harbor with a rich maritime history.
Scenic Coastline: Stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and rocky shores.
Historic Architecture: Well-preserved examples of colonial and Victorian architecture.
Art Galleries and Shops: A vibrant arts and culture scene with local galleries and boutiques.

8. How can I restore or refinish a Cohasset Colonials piece?

Restoring or refinishing Cohasset Colonials furniture is a rewarding project. Consider these steps:

Cleaning: Gently clean the furniture with a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt and grime.
Stripping: If the existing finish is damaged or worn, you may need to strip it using a chemical stripper.
Sanding: Sand the wood smooth using progressively finer grits of sandpaper.
Staining (Optional): If you want to change the color of the wood, apply a stain.
Finishing: Apply a protective finish, such as varnish, lacquer, or polyurethane, to seal the wood and protect it from damage.

9. What is the value of Cohasset Colonials furniture?

The value of Cohasset Colonials furniture depends on several factors:

Condition: Pieces in excellent condition will generally be worth more than those with damage or wear.
Rarity: Some pieces may be rarer than others, increasing their value.
Demand: The demand for specific pieces will influence their price.
Completeness (for kits): Unopened, complete kits are typically more valuable than partially assembled or incomplete ones.

10. Did Cohasset Colonials only sell furniture kits?

Primarily, Cohasset Colonials focused on unfinished furniture kits. However, they may have also offered some pre-assembled furniture or related accessories. Their core business was empowering customers to build their own furniture.

11. Are there any online forums or communities dedicated to Cohasset Colonials?

While there isn’t a large, active online community specifically for Cohasset Colonials, you can find discussions and information on:

Woodworking Forums: General woodworking forums often have threads about Cohasset Colonials furniture.
Furniture Restoration Forums: Forums dedicated to furniture restoration may offer advice and insights on working with Cohasset Colonials pieces.
Antique and Collectibles Forums: Antique and collectibles forums can be a good resource for information about the history and value of Cohasset Colonials furniture.

12. What alternative brands can offer similar Early American furniture styles today?

If you are looking to emulate the Early American Style, here are some alternatives:

Ethan Allen: A well-established furniture brand that offers a variety of traditional and colonial-inspired designs.
Stickley: Known for its high-quality, handcrafted furniture, including pieces in the Arts and Crafts style, which shares some aesthetic similarities with Early American furniture.
Pennsylvania House: A brand that specializes in traditional American furniture, with a focus on quality craftsmanship.
Local Craftspeople: Consider commissioning custom-made furniture from local craftspeople who specialize in traditional designs.