The curiosity and fashion for mechanical furniture led to the development of the accordian-action dining tables in 1800. The creation of this form is traditionally attributed to Richard Gillow from the cabinetmaking firm of Gillow and Company of Lancaster and London England. Not only did scientific advancement encourage the development of this furniture form, but also the concept of an exclusive room for dining prevailed in America at the end of the eighteenth century. Where previously this room's function was served by a variety of multi-purpose folding furniture, the advent of the dining room as its own space led to the creation of specific furniture forms, such as sideboards, cellerettes and large dining tables.

The D-shaped ends centering tablets, the boldly ring-turned and reeded legs, and the reeded edge of the top are characteristics of Maryland table forms. A related table with similar turnings in the collection of the Maryland Historical Society is illustrated in Gregory R. Weidman, Furniture in Maryland, 1740-1940 (Baltimore, 1984) p.182, fig. 152. An accordion-action dining table originally owned by the Maryland patriot Colonel Gassaway Watkins, sold in these Rooms, October 23, 1993, lot 255.