George H. Grant from Richmond, Indiana, received a U.S. patent for an improved seat. Patent no. 151873 was issued on June 9, 1874.
This model is a combination of iron and wood. The improved seat can be used in churches, parks, schools, halls, or lawns. The intent was to make a stronger seat that was cheap, portable, and easily constructed without skilled labor. The backrest and seat are made of dark wooden slats that are pushed together and curved for support. The feet of the chair legs feature holes that can be for mounting to a base.
George H. Grant and John Allen formed a partnership to manufacture school desks. After Allen’s death, the firm became George H. Grant & Company. In 1876 Grant formed a partnership with A. W. Hempleman to manufacture school and church furniture.