Make Adobe Bricks
from Whitman Mission Teacher's Guide, 2004.
Make the Mold
It will be necessary to make a mold to form the bricks. Whitman used a mold which measured 20" x 10" x 5". A mold can be constructed using pre-cut lumber. Use Dr. Whitman's dimensions or make a smaller version. Other items can be used as a mold rather than having to construct a mold from scratch, for example: small milk cartons, plastic blocks, cardboard shoe boxes, or Tupperware containers.
Make the Mixture
Adobe is best when clay soil is mixed with straw. Mix soil with water until it becomes quite thick. Add the straw.
Make the Brick
Once the mixture has thickened, place it into the mold.
Let it bake in the sun for one to two hours (depending on weather and thickness of clay).
Once the clay has hardened, carefully take it out of the mold and lay this "brick" on end for an additional ten days before building (less time is needed for smaller bricks).
Instructions from Whitman Mission Teacher's Guide, 2004.
Did You Know?
The Whitmans’ mission was important to early Oregon Trail travelers. Those who were sick, tired, or hungry or who needed a wagon fixed would make the side trip to the mission. Some would spend the winter with the Whitmans before continuing on to the Willamette Valley.