Page 17 - All About History - Issue 29-15
P. 17
USA
Smoke flap
This was attached in a continuous piece to
Shape and size the hide that covers the exterior. It allowed
Tipis could have a diameter smoke to escape and cool air to circulate
as small as two metres or during summer.
as big as 12. The conical
structure was able to
withstand strong winds.
Animal skin
Historic tipis had detachable
coverings made from bison hide,
while modern ones are made
from canvas. They kept the tent
cool in summer, warm in winter,
and dry during rainy periods.
Hides
Bison hides were stretched out, Campfire
the flesh removed and the hair A fire was used for cooking
shaved off. They were then food, heating water and keeping
tanned using a mixture made warm in winter.
from the bison’s own brains.
The hides were used for making
tipis, blankets and clothes.
Pets
According to Native American
legend, the wolf chose to become
man’s companion. Wolves slowly
developed into domesticated
dogs, used by Plains Indians for
hunting, hauling and as pets.
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