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So What is Chinking?
So What is Chinking?
Old wooden block houses, like the one found at Fort Yargo State Park, are built with large gaps between the beams. These gaps are filled with "chinking," which serves an important purpose as insulation from the weather, insects, and rodents.
The components that make up chinking in the 18th century are usually locally sourced mud and any other natural materials available to strengthen the chinking once it was inserted into the gaps. This material was also flexible enough to withstand the movement in the wood caused by humidity, temperature changes, and strong weather.
Every few years, this mixture needs to be replaced or changed out. This is where our CHINKING PARTY comes in!
To begin the process, we dig a big hole, fill it with water, straw or hay and...children. The kids have a BLAST in the mud, playing and mixing as they go. Once mixed, we will use that mud mixture to repair the old block house and preserve it for years to come. To rinse off, we are setting up a fun sprinkler play area for the kids to splash around in!
Event Details: July 12th: 10am - 4pm We will meet at the old block house. Please bring a spare set of clothing (or two) for everyone in your group. You may also want to bring a few towels, one to dry off with and one to cover your seats in case some mud is overlooked. We will be offering lunch this day. It will likely be hotdogs, chips and drinks but this is subject to change as we get closer to the date. Everyone who participates in this event will need to sign a liability waiver prior to "jumping into the fun." We will have these on site for you when you arrive. If you have any questions, please email Lady Pickles who is our Event Coordinator.
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