THE COMPANY WAS OFF AND RUNNING AGAIN

speeding into the 1950s. The company helped to 'rock' the decade by introducing platform rockers in addition to its increasingly popular reclining chairs. Next came the built-in ottoman and then the automatic footrest - or Otto-Matic as La-Z-Boy cleverly called it.

Jerry Lee Lewis encouraged people to "Shake, Rattle & Roll," and they did with the La-Z-Boy Tranquillator - an optional vibrating feature that could be added to any recliner for only $10. Innovation was everywhere - from 3-D movies to hula-hoops.

La-Z-Boy joined in the fun in 1959 with its own off-the-wall idea. Created as an auction piece, it was the loveseat to top all loveseats - upholstered in mink and designed to look like a car seat, complete with horns, radio, lights and blinkers.

THE PUBLIC EYE FOCUSED ON DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, ELVIS

and a blonde bombshell named Marilyn Monroe. Father knew best and the Crosby family presented the perfect picture of the American home with Bing relaxing in his La-Z-Boy recliner.

In the mid-'50s, La-Z-Boy appealed to both sexes with the Hi-Lo Matic. This innovative design featured an adjustable back that could be raised to accommodate a man's comfort needs and lowered to appeal to the aesthetic desires of the woman of the house.

By the 1960s, La-Z-Boy had completely changed its focus. Long known as a man's chair, La-Z-Boy supported equal opportunity by advertising the recliner as "The Most Comfortable Part of HER Day." The '60s also brought freedom, peace and love, and La-Z-Boy did its part to bring people closer together with its Sofetteจ, a dual-reclining loveseat.