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Indigenous Structures (5000 B.C.- 1900 A.D.)

History

The origin of the tipi is unclear, but may date from as early as 10,000 B.C., when people first inhabited Manitoba. Archaeological evidence indicates that tipis were definitely constructed by 5,000 B.C. The structure was well suited to the lifestyle of nomadic hunters and gatherers living on the plains. It was easily transported and constructed entirely of locally available materials.

Characteristics

  • all tipis were tilted cones, with the steep side at the rear of the structure set into the prevailing wind
  • the frame consisted of a series of straight tree poles, trimmed and stripped of bark
  • the poles were 16 to 33 feet long, about four to eight inches in diameter and usually pointed at one end
  • tipi coverings were originally hides, bark, or mats made out of rushes, and after the 1880s, canvas
  • an opening for ventilation and protruding poles was created at the top of the structure when erected
  • rocks or sod were used to anchor the skin covering to the ground prior to the mid-19th century; wooden pegs were used thereafter