Settle (furniture)

A settle is a long wooden bench with a high back, often with arms, and sometimes with a storage space underneath the seat. Primarily used for seating, settles were historically common in homes, particularly in kitchens and halls, serving as functional furniture and often providing insulation from drafts.

The high back of a settle offers significant protection from drafts and helps to retain heat, making it a practical seating option in older buildings. Some settles were designed to be moved easily, while others were built into the structure of the house. Variations exist, including settles with enclosed sides and hood-like tops, creating a semi-enclosed space reminiscent of a box bed. These variations provided an even greater degree of insulation and privacy.

Settles were prevalent in Europe and colonial America from the medieval period through the 19th century. They are considered a precursor to the modern sofa. Construction materials typically include oak, pine, and other locally available hardwoods.