Fighting Bear Antiques

Fighting Bear Antiques was founded in Jackson, Wyo., in 1978. The business operated for many years as a general-line antique store, in a small building off the town square. Back then, owner Terry Winchell always spent several months of the year combing all parts of the United States for unique and quality merchandise.

As a collector, dealer, and published historian of Thomas Molesworth furniture, I am amazed at how quickly he developed his style - From his early almost-primitive efforts to his later sleek, comfortable, and professionally stylish approach to furniture - in a matter of four to five years. This speaks of Molesworth evolving, innovative designs, his unique use of native materials along with his sense of great balance, comfort, art, and humor.

I purchased and sold so called ranch furniture long before it was in vogue. After I purchased my first Molesworth furniture, I realized I was looking at the Cadillac of western design. Soon following this, the Buffalo Bill Historical Center did a retrospect on Thomas Molesworth and published Interior West.

The Molesworth legacy is one of great influence. His success and his longevity speak for themselves. The broad scope of his talent cannot be underestimated; he designed furniture, fabric, metalwork, and accessories to meet the individual desires of his clients. He had a great imagination as well as the tenacity to infuse creativity into his designs.

Some of the most significant of Shoshone Furniture Company's commissions were the hotels and guest ranches for which Molesworth provided the full western treatment. These large spaces allowed Molesworth to showcase all areas of his expertise. The Plains Hotel was furnished twice with Molesworth furniture in a six-year period.