Jessica peels bark from fresh cut saplings that will be used to build a wigwam frame.
Mark uses a draw knife to scape bark that will not peel off easily.
Peeling the bark off the saplings will help to extend the life of the wigwam frame. Long pieces of bark can also be saved to lash the wigwam frame together.
Jessica burns the ends of the poles that will be placed in the ground. Burning the ends can help harden the wood (with some hammering) and help keep the foot of the poles from rotting in the ground too soon.
Mark places the poles in the ground.
He packs the poles in the ground angled away from the middle of the home.
Placing poles at an angle helps to form round, tall walls.
Jessica ties down poles that have been bent into place.
The wigwam frame so far. The wigwam measures 14 feet in diameter and 9 feet at the peak. We will continue to finish the frame, add sleeping platforms and shelves, and cover the structure during our program weekends at the museum.
