That’s Smithe with an E. Have you ever heard that jingle? It’s synonymous with Walter E Smithe Furniture. Right here in front of us stands a legacy. A legacy built on custom upholstery and family. Walter E Smithe Furniture started humbly in 1945. It began as Tone Appliances and Furniture a small store on Belmont Avenue in Chicago. Walter E Smithe Sr and Bill Shanahan founded it. They saw opportunity after World War II. They renamed it Smithe and Shanahan. Bill Shanahan later sold his share to Walter Sr’s brother Charlie.
Walter E Smithe Jr joined the business in the 1960s. His brothers Gary and Tomm joined him. They phased out appliances focusing on custom upholstery. Walter Jr later started his own company Walter E Smithe. His sons Walter Tim and Mark joined in the 1970s and 1980s. Today the company boasts ten showrooms. It’s considered one of the top one hundred furniture retailers in the US.
The Smithe family is integral to the company’s identity. Their quirky commercials are famous in Chicago. For decades the three Smithe brothers starred. Now the four Smithe sisters take center stage. The commercials are clever. They use slogans like You dream it we build it. They feature everything from Price is Right parodies to wrestling matches with Billy Corgan. The commercials reflect the company’s playful spirit and commitment to quality craftsmanship. The commercials showcase the evolution of the family business. Four generations of the Smithe family have contributed to the company’s success. Walter E Smithe Jr’s contribution is undeniable. He pioneered custom order furniture in Chicago.
Walter E Smithe Jr passed away in 2022. He left behind a remarkable legacy. He built a successful business. His dedication to quality and family is still felt today. Walter E Smithe Furniture continues to thrive. It remains a Chicago institution. It reflects the family’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship and community. So next time you see that jingle remember the story. Remember the family. Remember Walter E Smithe Furniture.