In 1698, let me repeat that, in 1698 Mr. Nakamura’s ancestors built his family house in Miasa-mura, Japan. Incredibly the house is still standing today. The houses secret to lasting more then 300 years? Almost the entire house is made out of Hemp….
Unlike the 3 little pigs, Mr. Nakamura’s family used hemp to make a house to stand the test of time. With wooden beams serving as the structural support, Hemp ropes would bind the supports together.
Beams and roof tied with hemp ropes
Hemp bundles fill the walls for insulation while the hemp stalks tied together like a mat serve as both a wall (think drywall made of hemp mat’s) and pleasing decoration.
Hemp stalks are then piled in a thick layer on top of the roof beams forming the roof. Tied down, the edges are then trimmed to complete the decorative look.
Hemp stalks piled together form the main foundation of the roof. Hemp stalks at the base of thatched roof.
Guest rooms with a view of the hemp thatched roof and hemp tied trusses
Mr. Nakamura’s 300-year-old hemp house is a landmark for the small town of Miasa Mura, Japan. It should be recognized as a landmark for humankind…
Fireplace and kettle. The smoke would rise and escape through the raised center section of the roof.
Not badass enough for you? The Hemp house also served as a safe house, resting stop and residence for Samurai!
Of course, the house also served as a place for the village to harvest their main crop… You guessed it, Hemp!
Original article found here: They huffed, We puffed, Hemp held the House Down, 1698 – The Canna Chronicles
