Greenville, SC, September 2, 2025
News Summary
Ledford Billiard Supply in Greenville, SC is exhibiting the rare J. M. Brunswick & Balke Co. ‘Cat’s Paw’ pool table, recognized as one of the rarest pool tables worldwide. Crafted between 1873 and 1884, this unique model offers a tournament-sized playing surface and exquisite materials, making it a significant find for collectors and enthusiasts. The showroom invites all interested in this remarkable piece of billiards history.
Greenville, South Carolina – Ledford Billiard Supply is making waves in the billiards community by showcasing the rare J. M. Brunswick & Balke Co. “Cat’s Paw” experimental model pool table at its showroom. This unique table is recognized as one of the rarest and most historically significant pool tables in the world, with only a select few known to exist.
Crafted between 1873 and 1884 by the renowned J. M. Brunswick & Balke Company, the “Cat’s Paw” was never mass-produced, making its current exhibition a remarkable opportunity for enthusiasts and collectors alike. The existence of this table was an enigma for decades, with many considering it a lost artifact until whispers emerged in the 1970s about its whereabouts. The table was speculated to be disassembled in a Midwest warehouse, leading to a prolonged search.
In 2007, a breakthrough occurred when a pool table with the serial number “0098” was found and subsequently acquired by a collector. After a detailed restoration process that returned it to its original specifications, the table now showcases its striking features, which include:
- Dimensions: A tournament-sized 4.5′×9′ playing surface;
- Materials: Exotic rosewood rails and burled walnut sides, embellished with meticulous inlays of teak, tulipwood, and ivory.
The “Cat’s Paw” also holds historical significance as it served as a design precursor to one of Brunswick’s most popular models, the Monarch. Many seasoned Brunswick dealers have never encountered a photograph of a genuine “Cat’s Paw” table, which underlines its rarity and the importance of this event.
Ledford Billiard Supply has positioned this exhibition as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for billiard aficionados. The “Cat’s Paw” is not just a game table; it is presented as a stunning centerpiece for any game room that encapsulates the legacy of the J. M. Brunswick & Balke Company. As a leading supplier in high-quality billiard tables, game room furniture, and accessories, Ledford Billiard Supply caters to both casual players and serious collectors.
Interested parties and media are invited to visit the Ledford Billiard Supply showroom, located at 1200 Woodruff Rd, STE G27 in Greenville, SC 29607, for an exclusive viewing of the “Cat’s Paw.” Additionally, a full documentary chronicling the journey of this remarkable table has been made available on YouTube.
For further inquiries, representatives of Ledford Billiard Supply can be reached by phone at +1 864-283-6929, with Cameron Ledford designated as the media contact person. More information about their products and services can be found on their official website.
FAQ
What is the “Cat’s Paw” pool table?
The “Cat’s Paw” pool table is a rare experimental model designed by the J. M. Brunswick & Balke Company, recognized for its limited existence and historical significance in the billiards world.
Where can I see the “Cat’s Paw” pool table?
The “Cat’s Paw” can be seen at Ledford Billiard Supply’s showroom located at 1200 Woodruff Rd, STE G27, Greenville, SC 29607.
What are the key features of the “Cat’s Paw” pool table?
Key features of the “Cat’s Paw” include a tournament-sized 4.5′×9′ playing surface, rosewood rails, burled walnut sides, and detailed inlays of teak, tulipwood, and ivory.
Key Features of the “Cat’s Paw” Pool Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Tournament-sized 4.5′×9′ playing surface |
| Materials | Rosewood rails, burled walnut sides, and exotic inlays |
| Historical Significance | Considered one of the rarest pool tables and a design precursor to the Monarch |
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Barchart: Ledford Billiard Supply Announces Consignment of the Legendary Cat’s Paw Pool Table
- Wikipedia: Pool
- Barchart: Cat’s Paw Pool Table Details
- Google Search: Cat’s Paw Pool Table
- Barchart: Exhibition of Rarest Pool Tables
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pool (Billiards)
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
