History of North America

What was a cedar plank house made of?

A cedar plank house, commonly known as "Plank House" in the indigenous architectural practices of various Northwest Native American tribes, is traditionally constructed using Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata). Cedar planks, split and hewn from cedar logs, serve as the primary building material. These planks are typically 1-2 inches thick and several feet wide. The framework of the house, including the posts, beams, rafters, and purlins, is usually constructed from larger, sturdier cedar logs or branches. The planks are then attached to the framework using wooden pins, nails, or traditional lashings made from cedar bark or roots. The gaps between the planks are sealed with moss, grass, or other insulating materials to ensure weatherproofing.