Evening Republican, Volume 17, Number 145, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 18 June 1913 — BARTHQUAKE PROOF HOUSES. [ARTICLE]

BARTHQUAKE PROOF HOUSES.

Tree Homes of Mexico—TyvJgs Grass Interwoven with Branches. In order to protect their homes from earthquakes many of the natives in the territory around Chllpanclngo and other towns in the State of Guerrero, Mexico, live in trees. Some of these tree homes are of large size and 'are ingeniously constructed. Reeds and grasses are Interwoven with the twigs and branches of the tree, much in the manner that a bird builds Its nest The severest wind seldom looser these houses from the tree. Where the trees are large and stand closely togather houses of two and three room:t are frequently built in their branches. These houses also afford protection from the “tigers” and other wild animals which are found in that region in large numbers. It is claimed that a “tiger” will not attdck its prey unless it is upon the ground. The prime object of elevating these houses into the trees, however, Is to keep them from being shaken down by the severe earthquakes which visit the Guerrero territory at frequent intervals. The rocking of the earth, gives the trees a swaying motion that does no damage to the houses. In some localities whole villages of these tree homes are to be seen. None of them suffered damage from the recent earthquakes which wrought such ruin to the buildings on the ground.