Hearth and home of the Paleo-Eskimos

Author(s): Ulla Odgaard

Year: 2003

Summary

This article offers a methodological approach to study hearth features in general. The hearths of the Paleo-Eskimo tradition are often well preserved, which makes it possible to interpret which heating processes took place and their effects on the indoor climate of the dwelling. To obtain this type of information, recording of fire-cracked rocks within and in connection to hearths is of special importance. The Paleo-Eskimos made use of a versatile pyro-technology, adjustable to the most extreme conditions in areas where access to firewood was limited. An archaeological experiment in combination with calculations of hypothetical combustion of fat show that it was possible for the Independence I people to live through the High Arctic winter in tents with a reasonable degree of comfort. Also, the symbolic aspects of hearths are discussed.

Cite this Record

Hearth and home of the Paleo-Eskimos. Ulla Odgaard. Études/Inuit/Studies. 27 (1-2): 349-374. 2003 ( tDAR id: 422198)

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

URL: http://www.fss.ulaval.ca/etudes-inuit-studies


Keywords

General
Fire Place

Geographic Keywords
Greenland

Spatial Coverage

min long: -73.054; min lat: 59.79 ; max long: -12.158; max lat: 83.604 ;

Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): EXARC Experimental Archaeology Collection Manager

Record Identifiers

ExArc Id(s): 8711

Notes

Rights & Attribution: The information in this record was originally compiled by Dr. Roeland Paardekooper, EXARC Director.