Title supplied by cataloger. Adobe structures are "natural buildings" made from a mixture of 50% sand, 35% clay and water, and mixed with 15% of a fibrous or organic material such as sticks, straw and even dung in some cases - which is useful in binding the brick together and allowing the brick to dry evenly. These buildings are extremely durable and account for the oldest structures on earth, some of which are still standing today. Adobe walls usually never rise above two stories because they're load bearing and have low structural strength. Ideally, the wall should be thick enough to remain cool on the inside during the heat of the day, but thin enough to transfer heat through the wall during the evening. To protect the interior and exterior adobe wall, finishes such as mud plaster, whitewash or stucco can be applied. These finishes protect the adobe wall from water damage but need to be reapplied periodically. Photo of an unidentified two-story adobe home with a 'cracking' whitewash finish. This side of the adobe has two large windows, one on each floor; the lower window is visible behind "climbing" shrubbery, and the upper window has a thick, wooden lintel around it. Although the house has been painted with a whitewash finish, the bricks are exposed. This was said to have been General Fremont, as well as legendary trapper and explorer, Kit Carson's headquarters at one time.
Type
Image
Format
1 photographic print :b&w ;16 x 25 cm. on sheet 21 x 26 cm. Photographic prints
If you're wondering about permissions and what you can do with this item, a good starting point is the "rights information" on this page. See our terms of use for more tips.
Share your story
Has Calisphere helped you advance your research, complete a project, or find something meaningful? We'd love to hear about it; please send us a message.