Wigwam

an Indian name for tent. The typical Indian wigwam consists of a frame and a covering. The frame is composed of poles, the butts of which are set in the circumference of a circle, while the small ends are brought together at the top like a cone. Ordinarily the covering was made of the skins of deer or buffalo laced together to form a semicircle not unlike a lady's cape in shape. When placed in position this covering surrounded the poles entirely. One was left loose ordinarily for a flap which might be tied down when the family were all within. The fire was built usually in the middle of the tent. A space at the top was left open for the escape of smoke. This space was sheltered by a short curtain erected on the windy side of the vent. The smoke curtain prevented the wind from blowing down the vent and aided in giving proper draught. The squaw built the family bed of skins on the ground or at best on the tips of brush. At best the wigwam was a draughty, uncomfortable dwelling, its only merit being the ease with which cover and tent could be packed up and transported from one camping place to another.