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The History of Joggling Boards: A Southern Tradition Reimagined
A joggling board is more than a piece of outdoor furniture. It is a symbol of Southern hospitality, craftsmanship, and a slower way of life.
For generations, these distinctive rocking benches have welcomed guests onto front porches throughout the South—creating a place to relax, visit with neighbors, share stories, and enjoy the outdoors.
At Frederick Joggling Boards, we preserve this historic tradition by creating handcrafted joggling boards inspired by the Lowcountry heritage of Charleston, South Carolina, while bringing this unique piece of furniture to homes throughout the United States.
What Is a Joggling Board?
A joggling board is a long, flexible wooden bench mounted on curved rockers.
Unlike a traditional porch swing, which hangs from chains or springs, a joggling board rests on its own curved supports. When someone sits down and gently moves, the board creates a smooth, rhythmic gliding motion known as "joggling."
The movement is gentle and relaxing—part rocking chair, part bench, and part conversation piece.
A joggling board is designed not just for sitting, but for experiencing.
The Origins of the Joggling Board
Joggling boards are most closely associated with the South Carolina Lowcountry, particularly the Charleston region.
The exact origin of the first joggling board is difficult to document, but historical references place them in use by the 1800s. They became a familiar feature of Lowcountry homes, especially on shaded front porches where families gathered to escape the heat and enjoy evening breezes.
The tradition grew alongside Charleston's distinctive architectural style, where deep porches—known as piazzas—became important gathering spaces.
Over time, joggling boards became connected with Southern hospitality, courtship, and community.
Why Were They Called "Courting Boards"?
One of the most charming stories associated with joggling boards is their connection to courtship.
Young couples were said to sit together on joggling boards, where the gentle motion created a comfortable place for conversation and companionship. Tradition says that they’d start by sitting on opposite ends, but after some rocking and gentle bouncing, they’d end up sitting together in the middle. Because of this association, they became known in some circles as "courting boards."
While historical references to this nickname vary, the tradition reflects the important role porches played as social spaces throughout the South.
Joggling Boards and Charleston Culture
The Charleston Lowcountry developed a unique relationship with outdoor living.
The region's warm climate encouraged homes to incorporate:
Wide porches
Shaded gardens
Breezeways
Outdoor gathering areas
Furniture designed for comfort and conversation became central to these spaces.
The joggling board fit perfectly into this lifestyle.
It was practical, elegant, and built for bringing people together.
How Frederick Joggling Boards Continues the Tradition
Frederick Joggling Boards was founded with the goal of preserving this distinctive Southern tradition while making it accessible to a new generation.
Each board is handcrafted in Frederick, Maryland using traditional woodworking principles and careful attention to detail.
Our boards are designed to capture the spirit of the original Lowcountry pieces:
Comfortable
Functional
Beautiful
Built to last
Every joggling board is made with the belief that outdoor furniture should become part of the stories created around it.
Our Signature Boards
The Maye — 8 Feet
The Maye is our signature compact joggling board.
Its size makes it ideal for:
Smaller porches
Patios
Gardens
Cozy outdoor spaces
Named after the Maye River, it brings the tradition of the Lowcountry to spaces of many sizes.
The Ashley — 12 Feet
The Ashley represents the classic joggling board experience.
Its generous length provides comfortable seating while maintaining traditional proportions.
Inspired by South Carolina's Ashley River, this board is designed for families, friends, and long conversations.
The Edisto — 16 Feet
The Edisto is our largest signature board.
Designed for:
Large porches
Estates
Wedding venues
Hospitality spaces
Public gathering areas
Named after the historic Edisto River, this board creates a true centerpiece for outdoor spaces.
Why Choose a Handmade Joggling Board?
Mass-produced outdoor furniture is designed for convenience.
A handmade joggling board is designed for connection.
Every Frederick Joggling Board receives individual attention during:
Lumber selection
Construction
Sanding
Finishing
Final inspection
The result is a piece of furniture that is unique, personal, and built with intention.
Materials and Construction
Our joggling boards are crafted using carefully selected kiln-dried wood.
Construction focuses on:
Strength
Flexibility
Outdoor durability
Traditional appearance
Each board receives exterior-grade protection designed for outdoor living.
Like all fine wooden furniture, a joggling board benefits from regular care and maintenance.
Where Joggling Boards Belong
A joggling board can transform many types of spaces:
Residential
Front porches
Back patios
Gardens
Pool areas
Vacation homes
Hospitality
Bed and breakfasts
Boutique hotels
Wedding venues
Resorts
Historic and Public Spaces
Museums
Parks
Historic homes
Community gathering spaces
The Modern Joggling Board
While joggling boards have deep roots in Southern history, their appeal is timeless.
Today, people are rediscovering them because they offer something increasingly rare:
A reason to slow down.
A place to sit without distraction.
A place where conversations happen naturally.
A place where memories are made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are joggling boards swings?
No. A joggling board is a rocking bench that moves on curved rockers. It does not hang from chains like a porch swing.
How long do joggling boards last?
With proper maintenance and protection from prolonged exposure to harsh weather, a well-built joggling board can provide many years of enjoyment.
Can joggling boards be customized?
Yes. Frederick Joggling Boards offers custom lengths and color options.
Where are your boards made?
Each Frederick Joggling Board is handcrafted in Frederick, Maryland.
Are joggling boards only for Southern homes?
No. While they originated in the South Carolina Lowcountry, joggling boards are enjoyed anywhere people value craftsmanship, outdoor living, and unique furniture.
Frederick Joggling Boards
Handcrafted joggling boards inspired by Southern tradition.
Built in Frederick, Maryland.