You might be surprised to learn that the most famous chairs in television history—Archie and Edith Bunker’s beloved seats—originally cost just eight dollars at a thrift store. Today, they reside in the Smithsonian, celebrated not only as props but as symbols of the cultural impact All in the Family had on American society.
When Norman Lear created the series, he aimed to portray a typical American family, flaws and all. This vision extended to the set design, where the Bunker home was crafted to feel lived-in and relatable. Rita Riggs, who helped develop the set, noted that the goal was to make viewers feel like they were opening a family album and recognizing themselves in the characters.
The chairs themselves were a stroke of genius. Purchased for a mere eight bucks, they were already well-loved by a previous family before becoming central to the Bunkers’ everyday life. From Archie collapsing into his chair after a long day to sharing rare heartfelt moments with Edith, those chairs became as essential to the show as any character.
Now enshrined in a museum, Archie and Edith’s chairs remind us of the show’s legacy: they’re more than furniture; they’re a testament to the authenticity and warmth that made All in the Family resonate with audiences across generations
