WHAT IS A BRUSH ARBOR?

In the 1700 and 1800’s lengthy revivals were held outdoors in a brush arbor. A brush arbor is an open sided shelter made from trees and brush. These structures could be as large as 20ft wide and 25ft long. The tree posts were set into the ground fairly close together. Large posts and tree limbs were laid across the top to create the roof. The limbs chosen for the roof were ones with very thick foliage. They were piled high to create protection from the sun. It would also provide shelter from the rain. The “pews” in the brush arbor were made of made from the larger logs and typically had no back. If someone had an organ or piano, it would be hauled in by wagon so that they could have music. A circuit riding preacher (a preacher that would ride to different communities and preach) would let the town know in advance of his arrival so that the townsmen could erect the brush arbor. People from all over would come to these revivals. They were not held for any specific faiths. People from all faiths would come.

To learn more about brush arbors, check out the links below:

http://mywilson.homestead.com/brusharbor.html

http://www.thepineywoods.com/BrushArborJly07.htm

http://www.ehow.com/facts_6067135_history-brush-arbors.html