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Ruin Trail Exhibit Doorways to the Past: Hohokam Houses

Hohokam Houses The Hohokam constructed a number of features used for domestic purposes. This type of architecture would have probably been constructed and used by immediate or extended family groups. Domestic architecture among the Hohokam included early pithouses and later coursed-adobe houses. These homes were built of materials gathered from the desert landscape. Since these natural materials erode, there are no prehistoric Hohokam homes in existence today. Doorways to the Past allows visitors to experience what these ancient homes were once like. The replicas, constructed from modern materials, are based on recent archaeological data as well as information from historic cultures of the Southwest.

The Pithouse Cluster More than a 1000 years ago, the Hohokam built wood framed, houses covered with adobe mud in shallow pits. These homes were arranged around a shared courtyard. You can explore a cluster of three pithouse replicas along the Ruin Trail at the museum. Walk inside a pithouse and discover how the Hohokam made their homes and the activities that took place there. Tour the central courtyard with shade ramada, tools, cooking and storage equipment, like those once used by the Hohokam.

The Adobe Compound The later Hohokam adobe homes were surrounded by walls, like many of today's suburban houses. Extended family groups probably shared these compounds. Tour Pueblo Grande's replicated compound, go inside an adobe-style room, and explore a courtyard like those where Hohokam artisans once worked.

If you have questions or require further information about the Doorways to the Past: Hohokam Houses exhibit please call the museum at (602) 495-0901.

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