Chief Motel Molesworth Furniture Sale



A trestle-style occasional table by Thomas Molesworth circa 1950's covered in red and black leather with metal boss and nailhead trim, distinctive teepee motif and fir burl stretcher. $10,200 (Approx. Size 38"x21½"x18"H)



A three seat sofa by Thomas Molesworth circa 1950's red and black leather with black piping, Chimayo faces on the seat and back cushions, upholstered paddle-style arms with metal boss trim, fir pole legs and exposed frame. $5,000 (Approx. Size 75"x28"x31½"H)



Two arm chairs by Thomas Molesworth circa 1950's black leather with red piping, Chimayo faces on the seat and back cushions, upholstered paddle-style arms with metal boss trim, fir pole legs and exposed frame. $4,320 for the pair. (Approx. 29"x28½"x29½"H)

The Chief Motel was owned and operated by the Capp family of Whitehall, Montana. For many years the Chief was a cornerstone of the Whitehall community and served not only as a motel but a bus station, insurance agency and CPA office. "Meet me at the Chief" was commonly heard as the motel was the largest building in Whitehall and host to numerous graduations, weddings, funeral dinners, and holiday celebrations. The Capp's were introduced to Thomas Molesworth and his distinctive furniture by a friend of the family and in the early 1950's Molesworth traveled to Whitehall to make a call on the Capps. After the visit, without a firm order in hand, Molesworth returned to his Cody shop and began production of the pieces that would be sent "on approval" to Montana. The truck that arrived carried two sofas, four chairs, writing table and a distinctive occasional table that featured a teepee motif. Everything was purchased with the exception of the writing table which was put back on the truck and returned to the Shoshone Furniture Company along with a check for the furniture that remained in Whitehall. These four pieces of original Molesworth furniture were part of the group that was located in the lobby which connected with the family living quarters. In this way the furniture served as public seating as well as furniture for the owner's family room.

It is the seller's wish that the buyer(s) of this remarkable furniture restore and preserve it as a celebration of their family's Western heritage as expressed in the crafts and building traditions of those who helped in the advancement of the West.

Terms: Prices are FOB seller's location near Butte, Montana. Kabin Fever has extensive experience in packing and transporting vintage furniture nationwide and is available to advise buyer regarding shipping logistics. Cashiers check or wire transfer (preferred) are the only acceptable form of payment. Funds to be paid in full upon conclusion of a sales agreement and held in escrow by Kabin Fever until the buyer or the buyer's agent receives the furniture. Interested buyers should immediately contact Warren Wolf 800-542-2246 warren@kabinfever.com to conclude a sale or submit an offer. Additional pictures of the furniture offered as well as Kabin Fever references are available upon request.