A pew is a long wooden bench with animal carved bench end, used for seating. Before pews came into existence congregants stood and worshiped Lord Jesus. With the rise of sermon as an act of Christian worship, especially in Protestantism, pews were made to be an essential part of church furniture.
Between 1600’s to 1800’s churchgoers of many denominations were seated in their house of worship according to their social ranks whether by assignment or purchase. In some churches pews were purchased by the congregants and their pew deeds were recorded and according to that they were given the title. Antique Pews are usually made of wood and arranged in rows facing the altar in a church, the area where the congregation sits is called the nave. There is usually a pathway between pews in the centre of the sanctuary to allow for a procession. Many pews have cushioned seating and even footrests; however some antique pews have kneelers in front of the seating bench so members of the congregation can kneel on them instead of the floor.
These kneelers usually have long padded boards which may be 15cm wide and elevated 10-15cm above the floor, run lengthwise parallel to the seating bench of the pew, however dimensions may vary widely. Sometimes pews are available with permanently attached kneelers so it is easy to move them out of the way when congregation members are not kneeling. Each antique pew is a unique piece of art; they are available at antique stores and online as well. They are rare in number, however more valuable reminding congregations of the rich history of Christian worship. | 
