Our Story: "Als Ik Kan"

Stickley’s legacy begins with three Flemish words, “Als Ik Kan” ("to the best of my ability"), a promise of excellence embraced by Gustav Stickley and his brothers—Leopold, and John George. Their vision and craftsmanship revolutionized American furniture, creating a tradition that thrives at Stickley today.

Historic photograph of the original L. & J.G. Stickley factory, showing a large red brick industrial building with rows of tall windows and a prominent water tower on metal supports. The factory sits along a dirt road with bare trees and grassy areas in the foreground, evoking an early 20th-century setting.
Archival photo of the Stickley furniture manufacturing plant in Fayetteville, NY, showing a two-story timber-frame factory with tall windows, vintage cars, a rooftop water tower, and snow-covered ground.
Exterior view of the original Stickley furniture factory in Fayetteville, New York, circa early 20th century, featuring ivy-covered brick walls, industrial windows, and a vintage car in a snowy setting.

Gustav Stickley: Pioneer of Arts and Crafts

Gustav Stickley transformed American design with his Mission furniture, combining honesty, functionality, and impeccable craftsmanship. His magazine, The Craftsman, and Craftsman homes shaped the Arts and Crafts movement, making Stickley Mission furniture timeless icons of American style.

Leopold Stickley: Revered Dean of Cabinet Makers

Leopold Stickley, co-founder of L. & J.G. Stickley, along with his brother John George upheld standards of elite craftsmanship for over six decades. He adapted to evolving tastes, leading with collections like the legendary Cherry Valley line of colonial revival furniture. In 1956, Leopold was named the “Revered Dean of Cabinet Makers” by leading publications, a testament to his impact on American furniture.

The Audi Family: Reviving a Legacy

In 1974, Alfred and Aminy Audi saved Stickley from decline, reviving its Mission collection in 1989 and sparking an Arts and Crafts renaissance. Today, their commitment to Stickley’s tradition of quality and craftsmanship has cemented its place as a leader in the furniture world.

More About Stickley

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Explore Stickley

  • Bookshelf with a collection of books on Gustav Stickley and L. & J.G. Stickley, displayed on a wooden book rack in Mission-style design, featuring titles from Turn of the Century Editions and The Craftsman Farms Foundation.

    Browse the Gift Shop

    Discover unique treasures inspired by Stickley craftsmanship.

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  • Plan Your Visit

    Schedule a tour of the Stickley Museum today!

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  • Two signs mounted on a stone wall. One is a wooden plaque reading "Stickley of Fayetteville Furniture Makers – Visitors Welcome." The other is a printed museum sign with directional instructions. A staircase runs diagonally in the foreground.

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    Visit The Stickley Museum in Fayetteville, New York.

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