Brewster Chair

Brewster chair

Brewster Chair is a type of American Colonial furniture, notable for its historical significance and distinctive design. Originating in the early 17th century, the Brewster Chair is named after William Brewster, a leader of the Plymouth Colony and a senior elder of the Pilgrims. Brewster Chairs are emblematic of the Pilgrim furniture style, which is characterized by its functionality, simplicity, and durability.

Design and Characteristics

The Brewster Chair features a solid, box-like construction with a high back, typically made from oak or other hardwoods available in the American colonies. The design includes turned spindles, a carved top rail, and straight legs connected by stretchers for added stability. The seat is often made of woven rush, reflecting the materials that were readily available to the colonists.

One of the distinctive features of the Brewster Chair is its decorative elements, which include carved motifs on the top rail and turned finials. Despite these decorative aspects, the chair maintains a robust and straightforward structure, aligning with the Puritan values of simplicity and practicality.

Historical Context

The Brewster Chair is deeply rooted in the early American colonial period, a time when furniture was primarily constructed by hand using local materials. These chairs were not just functional items but also symbolized the craftsmanship and self-reliance of the early settlers. The design of the Brewster Chair was influenced by English furniture styles of the period, adapted by the colonists to suit their new environment and limited resources.

Cultural Significance

Beyond its practical use, the Brewster Chair holds cultural significance as a symbol of the Pilgrims' journey to America and their establishment of the Plymouth Colony. It represents the blending of English traditions with the realities of life in the New World, embodying the spirit of adaptation and perseverance that characterized the early colonial period.

Preservation and Collection

Original Brewster Chairs are considered valuable antiques and are preserved in museums and private collections as important artifacts of American colonial history. They are studied by historians and antiques enthusiasts for insights into the material culture of the 17th century and the daily lives of the Pilgrims.

See Also

• American Colonial architecture
• Pilgrim (Plymouth Colony)
• William Brewster (Pilgrim)
• Plymouth Colony
• 17th-century furniture