Goahti - Construction

Construction

The interior construction of the poles is thus: 1) four curved poles (8–12 feet long), 2) one straight center pole (5–8 feet long), and 3) approximately a dozen straight wall-poles (10–15 feet long). Note that all the pole sizes can vary considerably.

The four curved poles curve to about a one hundred thirty-five degree angle. Two of these poles have a hole drilled into them at one end, with those ends being joined together by the long center pole that is inserted by the described poles. The other two curved poles are also joined at the other end of the long pole. When this structure is set up, you will have a four-legged stand with the long pole at the top and center of the structure. With the four-legged structure standing up to about five to eight feet in height, approximately ten or twelve straight wall-poles are laid up against the structure. The goahti covering, today made usually of canvas, is laid up against the structure and tied down. There can be more than one covering that covers the structure.

The differences between the goahti and the lavvu can be seen when looking at the top of structures. A lavvu will have its poles coming together, while the goahti will have its poles separate and not coming together.

The turf version of the goahti will have the canvas replaced with wood resting on the structure covered with birch bark then peat to provide a durable construction.