The flie (the 18th-century word for pavilion tent) is a 10′ x 10′ canvas supported by 6 – 6′ side poles and 2 – 7′ center poles. It was used in various types of settings throughout the revolutionary war. It was more common for sailors of the time to erect such structures with old or spare sails. In truth, they are all made out of the same material, and while the file was used, was not as common.

The file was used as a dining tent, an area to conduct business, plan actions, or as a social area when on land during careening parties. In some instances, they would be called upon for the surgeon to do his work if necessary.