Jimmy Possum Chair Workshop

About the Jimmy Possum Chair

The Jimmy Possum chair originated in the rugged and unforgiving terrain of western Tasmania, a region that tests the mettle of all who venture there.

As described by Atlas Obscura:
The Jimmy Possum chair is simplistic in design and ingenious in function. First appearing around 1875, the chairs were hewn from scrap wood and built with interlocking components, a feature borne out of a lack of building materials—the legs, arms, and back passed through the bottom of the chair, eliminating the needs for nails. This design also allowed for equal weight dispersal; the more use that the chair got, the stronger it became. With no fear of joints becoming loose, or legs going wobbly, the result was a virtually indestructible piece of furniture.

While the universal appeal of the Jimmy Possum chair is undeniable, the mystery surrounding the identity of its original designer and maker adds to its legendary status. This enigma speaks to Australians' love of mythical historical figures and our appreciation for native bush design.

About the workshop

The Rare Trades Centre and the Australian Centre for Gold Rush Collections are collaborating with wood-worker Robert Geddes to offer an exclusive opportunity for select wood furniture enthusiasts. In this developmental workshop, participants will:

• Learn the skills and knowledge needed to construct a Jimmy Possum chair.
• Assist Robert in formalising the processes needed to deliver a Jimmy Possum chair workshop.
• Document the methods used in constructing a Jimmy Possum chair.
• Construct their own Jimmy Possum chair.

The workshop will utilise traditional materials, hand tools, and construction methods. Additionally, participants will enjoy an exclusive back-of-house tour of the Gold Rush Collections with Robert and the curatorial staff, where they can examine and discuss the range of Jimmy Possum chairs preserved there.

Robert is collaborating with the Rare Trades Centre at a reduced rate, with the Centre contributing its regular earnings to this project. The workshop fee includes all necessary materials, tools, access to world-class facilities, close interaction with a skilled practitioner, and resources.

This unique learning experience is open to a limited group of practitioners with existing woodworking skills who are interested in contributing to the documented outcomes of their involvement, adding to the wealth of knowledge at the Australian Centre for Gold Rush Collections.

About Robert Geddes

Robert Geddes is a self-taught maker specialising in traditional English-style longbows and furniture, including stools and Jimmy Possum-style chairs. He is drawn to the simple, graceful shapes of these heritage forms and finds meditation in bringing them to life from native timbers.

Robert's exploration of the Cutler’s Sheffield Stools from late 18th-century England led to his first vernacular stool workshop with the Rare Trades Centre. His ongoing fascination with the origins and design of the Jimmy Possum chair has led him to study the range of these chairs held in the Australian Centre for Gold Rush Collections. This research informs his efforts to create opportunities for aspiring woodworkers to learn the skills and knowledge needed to craft their own Jimmy Possum chair.