A sawbuck table or X-frame table is a type of trestle table having X-shaped supports at either end. It takes its name from the similarity of these X-shaped supports to sawbucks.[1] In addition to the supports, a sawbuck table is distinguished by a sturdy central rail and key-tenon joints holding the supports and central rail together.[2] Historically, sawbuck tables also often featured footrests running the length of the table.[3]
The sawbuck table originated in Pennsylvania in the early 18th century, and is a characteristic example of Pennsylvania Dutch vernacular design.[2] The design is sufficiently sturdy that some sawbuck tables have remained in regular use for over 200 years.[2]
The earliest known modern picnic table was derived from the sawbuck table design, with the addition of attached benches on either side.[4] Picnic table builders continued to experiment with sawbuck designs having separate benches until the invention of the modern A-frame picnic table in 1926.[5] Sawbuck-style picnic tables continue to be used, for example for backyard applications where attached seating is not required.[6]