Name/Title
1920s Dentist ChairEntry/Object ID
2002.06.01Description
The dental chair evolved from ordinary chairs and barber chairs, with Josiah Flagg creating the first specialized chair in 1790. Key developments include the first reclining chair in 1832 by James Snell, Basil Manly Wilkerson's hydraulic chair in 1877, and John Naughton's breakthrough chair in 1958. His design featured a break in the seat for patient comfort and a prone position for the dentist.
The chair displayed here is from the dental office of Dr. Gustav Heineke. He practiced dentistry in Brenham for 34 years. The chair was purchased by Dr. Robert A. Winkelmann who also practiced here for 30 years. The chair was eventually donated to this museum by Dr. Paul LaRoche III when He purchased the practice.