The Adirondack chair is one of the most iconic and recognizable pieces of outdoor furniture in America. With its wide armrests, sloped seat, and timeless silhouette, it's a symbol of summer relaxation and porchside comfort. But behind this peaceful reputation lies a surprisingly dramatic backstory. From its humble beginnings in the Adirondack Mountains to its reinvention as a sustainable, modern-day classic, here’s a closer look at the history of the Adirondack chair.

1. The Origins: Thomas Lee and the Westport Chair

In the early 1900s, Thomas Lee of Westport, New York needed comfortable outdoor seating for his family’s summer home in the Adirondack Mountains. Frustrated by traditional chairs that tipped forward on uneven ground, he set out to build something better. After testing several designs, Lee landed on a wide, reclined chair with a sloped seat and high front legs—perfect for steep terrain and laid-back lounging.

This became known as the Westport Chair, the earliest version of what we now call the Adirondack.

2. The Patent Controversy: Harry Bunnell’s Bold Move

Lee shared his design with a friend, local carpenter Harry Bunnell. Without Lee’s permission, Bunnell patented the chair in 1905 and began selling it under his name. Despite this, there’s no record of a legal dispute—and Bunnell’s version of the Westport Chair became widely popular over the next 25 years.

3. The Modern Adirondack Chair Takes Shape

The Adirondack chair evolved again in 1938 when Irving Wolpin, a designer from New Jersey, patented a new “lawn chair” featuring a slatted back made from several curved planks instead of a single solid board. This design, paired with the signature reclined seat, became the foundation for the modern Adirondack chair we know today.

From there, variations multiplied—different materials, colors, and features like footrests and cup holders were introduced. But the core silhouette stayed the same: sturdy, stylish, and ready for relaxing.

4. What Makes an Adirondack Chair? Key Features

An authentic Adirondack chair has a few defining traits:

• A gently reclined, sloped seat
• A tall back made of 3 to 7 curved vertical slats
• Wide armrests, ideal for drinks or snacks
• Durable construction, typically built for all-weather use

Some modern designs add rockers, gliders, or Tête-à-Tête seating for two, but the essence of the Adirondack remains rooted in comfort and simplicity.

5. The Problem with Traditional Adirondack Chairs

Classic wooden Adirondack chairs may look timeless, but they’re not always easy to maintain. They require regular sanding, painting, sealing, and winter storage—and can be heavy to move. Over time, exposure to the elements often leads to cracking, fading, and warping.

6. The Modern Solution: Maintenance-Free Adirondack Chairs from By the Yard

By the Yard has redefined the Adirondack chair with innovation that honors its legacy. Our Adirondack chairs are handcrafted using High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), a maintenance-free material made from recycled milk jugs. Unlike wood, HDPE doesn’t rot, splinter, or fade—and it doesn’t need to be stored or repainted each season.

By using sustainable materials, we create eco-friendly outdoor furniture that’s built to last a lifetime. It’s a new chapter in Adirondack history, one where style, comfort, and responsibility all sit together in perfect harmony.

Celebrate the Legacy of Outdoor Living

When you relax in a By the Yard Adirondack chair, you're not just sitting down—you’re participating in over a century of design, craftsmanship, and innovation. Explore our full collection of durable outdoor furniture designed to elevate your patio, porch, or garden year-round.

Visit bytheyard.net to shop today or call 877-220-0448 to speak with a furniture specialist.