A bell tent is a human shelter for inhabiting, traveling or leisure. The design is a simple structure, supported by a single central pole, covered with a cotton canvas. The stability of the tent is reinforced with tension by guy ropes connected around the top of the walls and being held down by pegs around the circumference to the ground. It has a circular floor plan of some 10ft and larger.
The multiple sizes of bell tents can be suited to their use or preference and most have a specious interior, with room to sleep a number of people.
History
Indigenous people from around the world have used canvas as a natural breathable material, with suitable properties for use in the elements. Canvas is durable and versatile. Today's modern canvas can be waterproof, mildew resistant, and flame retardant.
A predecessor to the bell tent, the sibley tent was invented by Henry Hopkins Sibley, who had studied the Native American tipi during the expeditions he carried out in the American Old West, he patented his tent design in 1858.
The bell tent is characteristically different to the sibley tent by its walls, raised larger entrance and guy ropes, without the a telescopic tripod or smoke hole.Which were characteristics of the tipi.
