Glossary

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Hadley Chest - A type of early American New England - made chest that stood on four feet and usually had only one drawer, and was decorated with crude incised carving.

Half Blind Dovetail - A dovetail joint where the cut does not go all of the way through the board. The ends of a half blind dovetail are concealed.

Hallmark - The mark or marks designating that a piece of metal work has received an official approval of quality. Usually given by Goldsmith's Hall, London

Hardboard - A type of manufactured board similar to particleboard but with a much smoother surface. A common brand of hardboard is Masonite.

Headsaw - In a sawmill, the large band saw or circular saw used to size the log into lumber.

Heartwood - The dead inner core of a tree. Usually much harder and darker than the newer wood. Also see sapwood.

Hepplewhite - An English designer in the 18th century who frequently co-operated with the Adams Brothers. He wrote "Cabinet Maker and Upholsterer's Guide".

Highboy - Tall Chest of drawers supported by cabriole legs and usually crowned with cornice moldings or a pediment. Popular in 18th century America.

Hitchcock - A smaller chair of American design made during the period of 1820 to 1850, named after Lambert Hitchcock. It has an oval top rail and cane or rush seat and is usually decorated with a stencil of fruit or flowers.

Horn & Antler - Furniture made in England, Germany and Austria for the European trade. Also made in Texas in the 19th century with horns from the Texas Longhorn Steer. In the 18th century they became components of chairs, tables, and other pieces of furniture.

Hutch - Another name for a chest, sometimes seen with shelves mounted on top. Common in the Gothic household.