The Inuit people, commonly called Eskimos, adapted to the harshest environments known. The snow house or Igloo protected families from the elements. Snow blocks were cut from compacted snow and stacked in spiral fashion, circling up to close in the dome. An ice "window" added to the inner light and ambiance. The blubber lamp heated the interior with its small flame. The entrance tunnel led downward to the Igloo interior so that heat would not escape. This design was clever and efficient.
- Finished igloo.
- Cutting a snow block from compacted snow.
- Lifting the block.
- The block.
- Laying foundation ring.
- Building the walls.
- Spiraling inward toward the dome: Fishing spears help support the blocks.
- Completed dome. Note the ice window, for light.
- The igloo complete.
- The Polar expedition.
- "Eskimo" couple.
- Entrance tunnel from the inside.
- Snow couch with deer hide covering.
- Getting comfortable inside.
- Jim reclines on the snow couch.
- Blubber lamp.
- The small flame, along with body heat, warms the igloo.
- Hide covering on doorway keeps out winds.
- More Eskimos visitors arrive.
- Sliding backwards into the entrance tunnel.
- Jim sleeps in as darkness falls.
- Sleeping sound at 10F.