Native American Housing Types to Know for Native American Studies

Native American housing types showcase the diverse cultures and environments of Indigenous peoples. Each structure, from wigwams to igloos, reflects unique lifestyles, social organization, and adaptations to their surroundings, highlighting the rich tapestry of Native American heritage.

1. Wigwam

   • Traditionally used by Algonquin-speaking tribes in the Northeast.
   • Constructed with a frame of wooden poles covered with bark or mats.
   • Typically dome-shaped and suitable for small family units.
   • Easily assembled and disassembled for seasonal migration.

2. Tipi

   • Associated with the Plains tribes, such as the Lakota and Cheyenne.
   • Made from a conical frame of wooden poles covered with animal hides.
   • Designed for mobility, allowing for quick setup and takedown.
   • Features a smoke hole at the top for ventilation and fire.

3. Longhouse

   • Common among the Iroquois and other Northeastern tribes.
   • Built as a long, narrow structure to house multiple families.
   • Constructed with a wooden frame and covered with bark or thatch.
   • Served as a communal living space, reflecting social organization.

4. Pueblo

   • Found in the Southwestern United States, particularly among the Hopi and Zuni.
   • Made from adobe (sun-dried mud bricks) and stone, often multi-storied.
   • Built into cliffs or on mesas for protection and community living.
   • Reflects agricultural lifestyle and connection to the land.

5. Hogan

   • Traditional dwelling of the Navajo people in the Southwest.
   • Constructed with a wooden frame and covered with earth or sod.
   • Circular in shape, symbolizing harmony and balance.
   • Often used for ceremonial purposes as well as living space.

6. Plank House

   • Used by coastal tribes of the Pacific Northwest, such as the Kwakiutl.
   • Built from large cedar planks, creating a sturdy and weather-resistant structure.
   • Typically long and narrow, accommodating extended families.
   • Reflects the abundance of natural resources in the region.

7. Wattle and Daub House

   • Common in various Native American cultures, particularly in the Southeast.
   • Constructed with a framework of woven branches (wattle) and mud or clay (daub).
   • Provides good insulation and is relatively easy to build.
   • Often used for both living and storage purposes.

8. Earth Lodge

   • Primarily used by the Plains tribes, such as the Mandan and Hidatsa.
   • Built partially underground with a wooden frame and earth covering.
   • Offers excellent insulation against harsh weather conditions.
   • Serves as a communal space for gatherings and ceremonies.

9. Chickee

   • Traditional dwelling of the Seminole and Miccosukee tribes in Florida.
   • Elevated wooden platform with a thatched roof made from palm fronds.
   • Designed to provide ventilation and protection from flooding.
   • Reflects adaptation to the subtropical environment.

10. Igloo

    • Used by the Inuit and other Arctic peoples.
    • Constructed from blocks of compacted snow, forming a dome shape.
    • Provides excellent insulation against extreme cold temperatures.
    • Reflects the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Arctic cultures.