About Colonial Deacons Benches

Amish Heritage Colonial Bench

• This Amish Heritage Arrow-Back deacons bench is typical of benches in American churches to seat pastoral staff. Variations of this bench include the arrow-back, comb-back, bow-back, paddle-back, fan-back, wheat-back and the sack-back, referring to the style of spindles on the back of the bench. Amish and Mennonite communities continue to make deacon benches that seat two or three people.

Deacon Bench with Solid Back

• Colonial deacon benches were also made with solid backs as opposed to spindles. These benches with solid backs often had higher backs and a solid piece of wood in front of the bench about six inches from the floor. Deacon benches make a great entry seat in any home; they are ideal for putting shoes on or taking them off inside the front door.

Colonial Deacon Benches with Built-in Storage

• Some deacon benches were made with a built-in storage area. Lifting the seat reveals a large rectangular space to store winter accessories such as hats, gloves and scarves. Alternatively, the storage area could accommodate shoes and boots or school back packs to keep entryways tidy.

The Amish Colonial Deacon Bench Furniture Making Techniques

• Amish artisans use high quality hardwoods to make Colonial style deacon benches. They kiln dry the wood beforehand to prevent warping. The wood pieces are joined together with wooden biscuits or by tongue and groove methods to make a durable piece of furniture. Although deacon benches continue to be made in Colonial styles, Amish furniture makers do not usually use particle board or composite wood.