The Big Chair of Archdale, North Carolina, is a true American landmark with a long and storied history stretching back to the 1800s. The Big Chair, or Big Chair as it is affectionately known, is located on Main Street in the middle of downtown Archdale. This imposing structure stands 15 feet tall and weighs a staggering 4,000 lbs. It is made of steel and is a relic of a long-forgotten era. Many visitors to the Big Chair area will immediately recognize the chair’s unmistakable shape and design. The Big Chair is a large wooden chair with a back, seat, and arms protruding from the ground. It was originally built in the 1800s and was once used for seating up to 10 people. It has been referred to as the “Mother of All Rocking Chairs” because of its large size, large rocking motion, and it’s ability to rock back and forth. While it is no longer used for seating, it has become a beloved local tradition. Learn more here.

The origins of the Big Chair are debated and shrouded in mystery. One story claims that the Big Chair was built by a woman who owned her own sawmill and lumberyard in the area. The story goes that the woman built the Big Chair out of leftover supplies to honor her children. Regardless of the Big Chair’s mysterious origin, it has become a beloved local landmark and a favorite spot for photographs and memorable conversations. The Big Chair is a beloved part of Archdale’s local history, but it is also important on a much larger scale. The Big Chair is part of the National Register of Historic Places and is an important part of the town’s heritage. Its official name is the “Arcadia Chair,” which references the Greek origin of the town’s name, which means arcadia or ‘idyllic countryside.’ The Big Chair is also often depicted in American artifacts and art, including Norman Rockwell’s 1959 painting “The Big Chair in Winter.   Learn more about The World’s Largest Chest of Drawers – Archdale, NC - A Monument to Unique American Craftsmanship. 

 Today, the Big Chair continues to be a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. While one can no longer sit on the Big Chair, locals celebrate its unique and historical significance by decorating it yearly with a seasonal wreath. It is also the setting for various annual festivals and events, including the “Big Chair Day” held each year in April. The Big Chair of Archdale, North Carolina, is truly a unique landmark, embodying the town’s long and storied history. It is held in high esteem by locals and visitors alike and continues to serve as a reminder of the important role Archdale played in the formation of the United States of America. It is a place of celebration and reverence and is an experience that many cherish for a lifetime. 

The Big Chair is a timeless symbol of Archdale, North Carolina. Located in the city of Archdale, the Big Chair is a beloved landmark for the residents and has been for decades. The Big Chair is recognized as the world’s largest rocking chair. Each section of the chair measures six feet in length, and the seat is a whopping 20 feet off of the ground. The Big Chair stands in front of the Archdale City Hall building and is surrounded by a picturesque park and a river. The Big Chair was designed by local residents Drexel and Faye Thomas, and it was constructed out of white pine by Green Brothers Furniture Company. The chair was built as a tribute to the city’s former mayor, Harold Boyles, who had requested that the town do something special to commemorate its centennial. The chair was completed in time for the centennial celebration, and it has remained a popular attraction ever since.