• Journal of the Korean Institute of Rural Architecture
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• v.14 no.4
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• pp.11-18
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• 2012

This study is to establish the dwelling principle and architectural characteristics of Powhatan Indian Community in Eastern part of North America. To find a pattern and dwelling principle of town building and housing, I have researched both site survey of Powhatan at Jamestown Settlement in Virginia and a related references of North America Indian. In addition of study, I have tried to understand their life style in 17C, a spatial characteristics of space composition, and a using materials of Yehakin which means Powhatan's house in the exhibition hall of Jamestown Settlement. The results of this paper are as follows: First, the form of Powhatan house is like a longhouse which has two types that are oblong and rectangular house. Usually they had lived in the style of oblong house. Second, there are three patterns to set up the semi-permanent settlement of Powhatan, which are circle-type, street-type, and free-type of village. Third, the fire place of interior space that is most importance element to heat and cook is put it into the center of room, and the other beds and shelves are arranged by the side of wall which is covered of rush matt.