J. Stuart Clingman

1882 - 1956

J. Stuart Clingman, born October 18, 1882 in Chicago, grew up around furniture. His father, George Clingman, was the general manager of the Toby Furniture Co. of Chicago. In 1900 Toby introduced a collection of mission furniture designed by George Clingman, which set the stage for Gustav Stickley's New Furniture collection. Clingman received training at the Chicago Manual Training School, decorative design at Chicago Art Institute, and architecture at Armour Institute. Following that he traveled in London and Paris. On his return he designed special order furniture for Tobey's custom shop. Alexander W. Hompe, president and designer of Royal Furniture Co. persuaded him to come to Grand Rapids in 1903. He was director of design for John Widdicomb Co., and for thirty-two years was associated with Robert W. Irwin as chief designer and vice president. He was an internationally-known furniture designer. His best work was in traditional design. He died on December 27, 1956 at the age of 73.