The Mound-Builders

Chapter III: Architecture and Engineering

CHAPTER III ARCHITECTURE AND ENGINEERING Primitive architecture of native American tribes-Structural achievements of the Mound-builder&--Magnitude of mound-building operations-Construction and purpose of the mounds-Use of stone in building of mound&-Stone burial vaults and stone graves-Timber structures-Primitive engineering in the mound area-Geometric earthworks and their construction. T HE origin and development of architecture furnishes a fascinating chapter to the student of human culture. In the so-called civilized countries of today the landscape is literally dotted with structures and edifices reflecting the high development of architecture and engineering. But it is a far cry back to the days of savagery, when human beings were content with the natural shelter afforded by trees, overhanging rocks, and caves. Gradually, as the cosmic urge toward cultural improvement asserted itself, rude shelters of sticks, brush, bark, and stones were constructed. These in turn were supplanted by lodges and tipis of poles, mats, and skins, often of a portable nature to suit the convenience of nomadic peoples. The character of these shelters improved with the cultural status of their builders, and both advances were decidedly dependent upon available supplies of suitable building materials-stone, clay, and timber. At first, artificial structures were intended as dwellings or domiciles solely for the convenience of the living; but as religious, social, technical, and