Goahti

A goahti (Norwegian: gamme, Finnish: kota), Swedish: kåta) is a Sami construction that can be similar to a Sami lavvu or a peat covered version using the same base structure. It is often constructed slightly larger than a lavvu. In its tent version the goahti is also called a 'curved pole' lavvu, or a 'bread box' lavvu as the shape is more elongated while the lavvu is in a circular shape.

Construction

The interior construction of the poles are thus: 1) four curved poles (8-12 feet long); 2) one straight center pole (5-8 feet long), and; 3) approximately a dozen straight wall-poles (10-15 feet long). Note that all the pole sizes can vary considerably.

The four curved poles, that curve to about a one hundred thirty-five degree angle. Two of these poles have a hole drilled into them at one end, with those ends being joined together by the long center pole that is inserted by the describe poles. The other two curved poles are also joined at the other end of the long pole. When this structure is set up, you will have a four-legged stand with the long pole at the top and center of the structure. With the four-legged structure standing up to about five to eight feet in height, approximately ten or twelve straight wall-poles are laid up against the structure. The goahti covering, today made usually of canvas, is laid up against the structure and tied down. There can be more than one covering that covers the structure.

The differences between the goahti versus the lavvu can be seen when looking at the top of structures. A lavvu will have their poles come together, while the goahti will have their poles separate and not coming together.

In the turf version of the Goahti it will have the canvas replaced with wood resting on the structure covered with birch bark then peat to provide a durable construction.

Transportation and usability

Traditionally, the Sami transported the whole disassembled structure by having their domesticated reindeer being used as a pack animal to carry or drag the poles while following their reindeer heard. Today, because of the awkward size of the curved poles, this structure is used less often by the Sami as a transportable shelter. When following their cultural tradition, the Sami more often use the Sami lavvu for their camping structure.

In the coastal areas the more resident coastal Sami used the peat goahti as a combined human living and livestock building up until the second world war.

References

Manker, Ernst and Vorren, Ørnulv. Lapp Life and Customs: A Survey., Trans. Kathleen McFarlane, Oxford University Press London, 1962, p.42-46
Tromsø Museum, Sapmi - becoming a nation http://sapmi.uit.no/