What Are Slots on the Side of a Rolltop Desk For?

If you’ve ever seen a rolltop desk before, you may have noticed that it has slots on the side of it. These slots can be quite puzzling for those who are not familiar with rolltop desks and their history. However, they actually serve a very important purpose.

Firstly, it’s important to understand what a rolltop desk is. A rolltop desk is a type of desk that has a flexible cover that can be rolled up and down to reveal or conceal the desktop surface and storage compartments within the desk. These desks were popular in the late 19th century and early 20th century, and were often used by professionals such as lawyers, accountants, and writers.

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Now, let’s get back to those slots on the side of the rolltop desk. These slots are actually called pigeonholes. Pigeonholes are small compartments or openings that are used for storing papers, letters, or other small items.

The pigeonholes on a rolltop desk served as an organizational tool for those who used them. They allowed individuals to sort their papers and documents into specific categories or folders so that they could easily find what they needed when they needed it.

In addition to being functional, pigeonholes also added an aesthetic element to rolltop desks. Many rolltop desks were made from high-quality woods such as oak or mahogany and were intricately designed with carvings and details. The pigeonholes themselves added another level of detail to the desk design.

Today, while rolltop desks are not as commonly used as they once were due to technological advancements in office equipment and furniture design, they still hold a special place in history and interior design. Many antique furniture collectors seek out these desks for their unique design elements and practicality.

In conclusion, the slots on the side of a rolltop desk are called pigeonholes and serve an important organizational purpose for storing papers and documents. They also add an aesthetically pleasing element to the design of the desk. While they may not be used as frequently today, they hold a special place in history and design.