Antique Charles II Period Elm Bacon Settle Bench, c 1660

Antique Charles II Period Elm Bacon Settle Bench, c 1660

A superb original example of a solid elm, West Country, Charles II period bacon settle bench, dating from the mid to late 17th century. Beautiful patination throughout. Moulded cornice over a large quad panelled door, opening to reveal original hanging hooks and shelves. Over a bench seat with apron fall flap, opening to reveal further storage space. Sledge feet, typical of Farm and Cottage Furniture in the West Country of England.

Height 1900 mm
Width 895 mm
Depth 550 mm

1687

Antique Elm Bacon Settles: A Piece of Rustic History

Antique furniture often carries a sense of nostalgia and craftsmanship that transports us back in time, and the elm bacon settle is no exception. This charming piece of rural English furniture was once a staple in country homes, particularly in the 17th and 18th centuries. While these settles are now valued as decorative antiques, they were originally designed with practicality in mind. However, a common misconception about them often arises, which has muddied their historical identity over time.

What Is a Bacon Settle?

A bacon settle is a wooden bench with a high back and often a lift-up seat for storage. Traditionally made of elm due to its strength and durability, these settles served multiple functions in the rustic kitchens of rural England. The high back helped shield occupants from drafts in cold, stone-built houses, making them a cozy addition to the hearth. The storage space beneath the seat was ideal for keeping everyday items, from household tools to linens.

What distinguishes a bacon settle from other high-backed benches is its association with food storage. In many homes, the settle was placed near the hearth, which was not only the central source of heat but also the heart of food preparation. Above the settle, a rack or hooks were often installed to hang cured meats—most commonly bacon. The settle’s position near the fire helped keep the bacon dry and away from pests, while its enclosed design protected the household’s occupants from cold drafts.

The Common Misconception

The primary misconception surrounding bacon settles lies in their name. Some believe that the term “bacon settle” refers to a built-in storage compartment specifically designed to store bacon. This has led to many myths and romanticized notions about hidden bacon drawers or secret compartments within these antique benches. In reality, the connection to bacon is less about the settle itself and more about its placement within the home.

The hooks or racks for hanging bacon were typically installed above or behind the settle, not within it. The settle’s role was more about protecting the family from the cold while keeping the bacon at an ideal proximity to the fire. This misunderstanding may have been perpetuated by modern dealers or enthusiasts who misinterpreted the original purpose of these pieces.

Craftsmanship and Design

Most antique elm bacon settles showcase the skill of regional carpenters, who relied on locally sourced elm wood. Elm was favored for its resistance to splitting, making it ideal for furniture that needed to endure daily use. The design of bacon settles often reflected the simplicity and functionality of country life, with little ornamentation beyond the occasional carved motif or shaped panel.

Despite their humble origins, bacon settles were crafted to last, and many have survived the centuries. Their durability and rustic charm make them highly sought after by collectors and interior designers today. They can serve as statement pieces in modern homes, blending seamlessly with both traditional and contemporary styles.

The Appeal of Antique Bacon Settles Today

In the 21st century, bacon settles are no longer used for their original purpose, but they remain a symbol of rustic living. Their robust construction and timeless design make them versatile additions to homes, often repurposed as hallway benches, dining room seating, or even as unique storage solutions.

As antiques, bacon settles are appreciated for their history as much as their beauty. Owning one is not just about having a functional piece of furniture—it’s about preserving a slice of rural heritage. The stories these pieces carry, from their association with hearth and home to their misunderstood connection to bacon storage, only add to their charm.

In conclusion, the antique elm bacon settle is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of past generations. While the myth of hidden bacon compartments persists, the true value of these pieces lies in their ability to connect us with the practical yet endearing traditions of rural life. Whether as a collector’s item or a functional piece of furniture, a bacon settle brings warmth, history, and character to any space.