Hun'ge

Hun'ge. Roundhouse. The semi-subterranean assembly and dance house was the largest structure in the principal village or capital of the tribelet and was owned by the headman. , The sacred hun’ge was the community center for dances, meetings, social gatherings, and religious ceremonies; it is analogous to churches and other houses of worship. , The construction and care of the roundhouse was guided by ritual and great moral obligation that only a headman or “captain” could bear; therefore, roundhouses were either destroyed or abandoned after the death of their owners. , The four large center poles and beams support the roof, and thus are important structurally, but they are also important spiritually. , Near the rear wall and between the two rear poles is the foot drum tu’mma. Traditionally, a half section of hollow oak log was placed over a pit and stamped upon by the drummer to set the rhythm for the dancers. , In the old days the hun’ge was 40 or 50 feet in diameter with an earth covered roof. , The hun’ge here at Chaw’se has the essential features common to traditional roundhouses, and is actively used throughout the year by the Native American community. , Please show respect for this spiritual place and do not climb on the roof.