Shameless AE Plug

[danemodsandy]

I downloaded a new goodie from Automatic Ephemera today, and if you don't have it, get it.

It's the 1953 American Kitchens New Kitchen Designs for Living full-line brochure, showing all the cabinet items, all the accessories (including the wall extractor and the hostess cart!) and the entire dishwasher line - freestanding, undercounter and sink models.

It explains quite a few mysteries about the American Kitchens cabinets, including their countertop construction (vinyl over steel). It shows every cabinet variation, every trim piece and even every filler panel.

I've long said I wouldn't mind an American Kitchens kitchen, but now I want one real bad.

Seriously worth the money, and at $3.74, it's not much money. Really recommended. At least go to the link and look at the preview:

http://www.automatice.org/cgi-bin/index.cgi?brand=American Kitchens=

 

[danemodsandy]

This Brings Up.....

....Some questions about American Kitchens.

Does anyone know the years of production for the Loewy-styled line? I've seen references as early as 1948, and I know that there were upheavals at AVCO in '59, but I don't know if those are reliable dates.

Also, has anyone actually laid eyes on the Serv-Cart? This was a rolling dart designed to be "parked" under a section of countertop; it pulled out for use and the countertop stayed put. Looks absolutely wonderful in the pictures!

 

[circlew]

That cart looks interesting, but I'm surprised it doesn't have a front to match the other cabinets.

My friend Fred lived in a house with American Kitchens cabinets, but the countertops were standard Formica except the sink unit. They had been installed in the late 40's, and were in place until the early 70's, when his mom decided to do over the kitchen with Scheirich oak cabinets. Heard she regretted this after a few years, when they started falling apart.