Project

Inspiration

Water was a necessary commodity that was not available indoors in previous generations in the Appalachian area. The water would be retrieved in a bucket on a daily basis from a nearby hand dug well, spring, stream, cistern or pond. This task was usually performed by the young members of the family.

A dedicated place to set the full buckets of water was needed so all the family could use the water. This water would be used for personal cleaning, general cleaning as well as cooking.

The first generation of bucket benches were just as the name implies – a bench to set the buckets on. This would be placed on the porch or near the back door in good weather. In the winter this bench would be moved inside.

Over time the bench became a working place as well as a storage facility for the buckets. This resulted in a bench similar to a dry sink.

The last style and a very popular one looks similar to a bookcase. The lower shelf would house the buckets full of water. Being low to the ground made it easy for a child to get a full bucket of water placed there without spilling the precious ingredient. This shelf would also be reinforced to support the weight. The middle shelf would be stepped back and have items needed to use the water, such as, a ladle, soap or wash cloth. By stepping back this shelf access to the buckets of water was easy. The top shelf, if there was one, would have even smaller items such as a towel or cup.

Although these benches would be simple in construction, they performed a special purpose in the Appalachian culture. My designs are slightly refined and the joinery ensures they will hold up to the daily task.