This is not a teepee.

It’s likely that by now, you’ve noticed that there’s something wooden and dome shaped in the middle of the Yard, in front of Matthews Hall. No, it’s not overflow housing for next year’s class; it’s a wetu. As in, it’s not a teepee, igloo, or a hut. As stated on the signboard in front of Matthews,

A Wetu is atraditional Native American dwelling that is very similar to and sometimes referred to as a wigwam. A Wetu is built by criss-crossing saplings into an upside down U shape. The frame is then covered by sheets of bark on the outside and lined with woven rush mats on the inside. A hole is left at the top of the structure in order to release the smoke .

The wetu has been left partially uncovered so that students and passersby can see its interior structure.  At the Opening Ceremony this past Thursday, students, administrators, and members of the Aquinnah Wampanog tribe spoke about what it took to get the structure put in the yard and what they feel, seeing it completed.

Why is it here right now? Well, this year marks the 360^th anniversary of the signing of Harvard’s charter, which called for “the education of the English and Indian youth of this country, in knowledge and godliness.” It’s presence on campus also overlaps with Harvard’s annual powwow, which will take place this  Saturday at Radcliffe Yard and will be open to the public. The wetu will only be in the yard until May 3^rd, so if you have questions, ask fast. And just think, how many of your friends’ colleges have wetus in their yards?? Not so many.