The Lap Writing Desk

Time-honored convenience

Believe it or not, the American Declaration of Independence was written on a laptop.

Well, sort of.  Thomas Jefferson penned the brave assertion of the colonies' freedom in 1776 on a lap writing desk of his own design. Although the lap writing desk has been replaced by the laptop computer in recent years, the lap writing desk remains an invaluable companion for travelers and those with limited movement.

Writing history

The lap writing desk served as a useful tool for writers well before 1776. A larger version of the lap writing desk, the escritoire, first appeared in 16th century France.

In the 19th century, the lap writing desk enjoyed popularity with military and civilian travelers in Europe.  The sloping surface of the lap writing desk made writing letters, journals and prose easier in an era when traveling was anything but luxurious.

Usually crafted from mahogany, the lap writing desk sometimes exceeded its typical writing functions. Some varieties of lap writing desk actually included storage space for sewing and grooming items.

Modern benefits

Today's lap writing desk offers everything from elastic straps to hold pages in place, fluorescent reading lights, adjustable angles, to ergonomic designs to reduce neck and eye strain. Regardless of your unique needs, you can find a lap writing desk to accommodate your lifestyle.

If you're in a wheelchair, confined to a hospital bed, or just too comfortable to climb out of bed on weekends, a lap writing desk will enhance your lifestyle.

More information on writing desks