Duncan Phyfe (1768-1854) was one of 19th century America’s leading furniture makers. Born Duncan Fife near Loch Fannich in Ross and Cromarty, Scotland, he immigrated to Albany, New York at age 16 and served as a cabinetmaker’s apprentice. In 1792, he changed the spelling of his name, moved to New York City, and opened his own business, which eventually employed over a hundred workers. He became known as one of America's leading cabinetmakers by selling furniture for relatively low prices. He is most famous for his simple style, a reaction to the imported French designs popular at the time. Duncan Phyfe's furniture can be seen in the White House Green Room.
