Wattle and daub

Definition

Wattle and daub is a traditional building method using interwoven wooden strips (wattle) covered with a mixture of clay, straw, and other materials (daub) to create walls. This technique was commonly employed in the construction of early colonial homes, including those built by the Pilgrims at Plymouth, as it provided a durable yet insulated structure suitable for harsh winters and the challenges of the New World.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wattle and daub was an effective technique for insulation, helping to keep homes warm during the winter months in the challenging climate of New England.
2. The method utilized readily available materials, making it a practical choice for early settlers who needed to build quickly and efficiently.
3. Pilgrim homes at Plymouth were often constructed using wattle and daub, reflecting their adaptation to new environmental conditions.
4. This building style allowed for flexibility in design, enabling settlers to create various shapes and sizes of structures based on their needs.
5. Wattle and daub construction was not just limited to homes; it was also used in barns and other outbuildings, showcasing its versatility.

Review Questions

• How did the wattle and daub building technique contribute to the survival of the Pilgrims during their early years in Plymouth?
  • The wattle and daub technique played a crucial role in the survival of the Pilgrims by providing well-insulated homes that could withstand the harsh New England winters. By using locally sourced materials like clay and wood, they were able to construct durable shelters quickly. This method not only offered protection from cold weather but also proved effective against potential threats, allowing the Pilgrims to focus on establishing their new settlement.
• Compare wattle and daub with other contemporary building methods used by European settlers during colonization. What were its advantages?
  • When compared to other methods such as timber framing or stone construction, wattle and daub had distinct advantages for early colonial settlers. Its use of local materials made it more accessible and quicker to construct, which was essential for newcomers who needed immediate shelter. Additionally, wattle and daub provided better insulation than many other techniques available at that time, helping settlers cope with fluctuating temperatures without needing additional heating sources.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of wattle and daub construction among the Pilgrims in relation to their European heritage and adaptation to new environments.
  • Wattle and daub construction held significant cultural importance for the Pilgrims as it represented both their European heritage and their adaptation to a new environment. This traditional building method, rooted in their past experiences in England, allowed them to recreate familiar forms of shelter while also demonstrating their resourcefulness in utilizing local materials. As they settled into life in Plymouth, this technique not only facilitated their physical survival but also symbolized their resilience and commitment to establishing a community in an unfamiliar land.

Related terms

Thatching: A roofing method that uses layers of dried vegetation such as straw or reeds to create a waterproof cover for buildings.

Post-and-beam construction: A structural system where vertical posts support horizontal beams, forming a framework for walls and roofs.

Colonial architecture: The architectural style and building practices used by European settlers in America during the colonial period, influenced by European traditions.