Phoenix Furniture Company
The Phoenix Furniture Co. was started by William A. Berkey from the assets of Atkins and Soule of Grand Rapids in 1872. The company was successful by filling a niche in early Grand Rapids furniture manufacturing, with the production of upholstered parlor furniture. David Wolcott Kendall served as chief designer from 1879 until his death in 1910, positioning the company as an innovator in Oriental-influenced Reform and Mission furniture. The company became a part of the Robert W. Irwin Furniture Co. in 1919, which continued to operate its factory until 1953.