Soddy is a term that refers to a type of dwelling or house that is built using sod, also known as turf or soil. It typically involves constructing walls and a roof using blocks or chunks of soil or turf to create a solid structure. The term "soddy" is derived from the combination of the words "sod" and "barn" or "shanty."
This type of housing was commonly used by early pioneers, settlers, or indigenous peoples in regions where building materials, such as wood or stone, were scarce or difficult to obtain. Soddies were prevalent in areas with extensive grasslands, such as the American prairies or the Great Plains, where settlers did not have immediate access to traditional building resources.
Soddies have several distinctive characteristics. Their walls are made by stacking layers of sod or turf in a similar manner to bricklaying, often with the grassy sides facing inward. The roof is typically made using wooden poles or branches, covered with a layer of sod and sometimes reinforced with straw, thatch, or other materials for added stability and insulation.
While soddies may appear crude or rudimentary compared to more traditional housing, they provided a durable and efficient shelter, particularly in regions with harsh weather conditions. The thermal properties of the sod walls and roof provided excellent insulation against extreme temperatures, keeping the interior cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Today, soddies are primarily historical artifacts or preserved structures, providing insights into the early settlement of specific regions or cultures. They serve as reminders of the resourcefulness and adaptability of early builders who utilized the materials available to them to create functional and lasting homes.
