Today we helped build a house! When we first arrived, there was a large group of people surrounding a 30 by 15-foot area of mud. We observed as they took turns walking/dancing across the mud, and stomping in neat lines, one left to right and the other top to bottom. Occasionally they would stop to mix straw, hay, and water into the mud. Before we could join in, a local journalist approached us and wanted to interview some of us. After this, we jumped right in and began to help mix the mud. After mixing, we were instructed to begin making small, condensed clumps to be transported up to the structure. To do this, we had to kick the mud and sweep it with our feet towards the edge of the mud pile. Next, we would continue to sweep and kick these small piles to make them easier to carry. We began bringing these large handfuls of mud up a small, steep ramp to the frame of the house-to-be where some of the locals and Richard ’22 (Go Richard!) applied it to the walls. During this process, we had many opportunities to work with, talk to, and get to know some of the local families that were helping alongside us. We even ran into a friend of ours we had made two days ago while playing soccer! The whole experience was very lively and had a great vibe, with music playing and drinks being provided. After the house was complete our arms and legs were caked in thick layers of mud, so we rinsed off under a hose and in buckets of water. We had lunch in a nice shady spot under a large tree in the backyard and after eating, we were able to hang out more with the locals there; some of us playing soccer, and others chatting or dancing. Before we left, we got to talk to the homeowner who explained the process and history of the Quincha and how it combines hard work and a social gathering in one. By inviting neighbors, family, and friends, the people in these communities are able to help and bond with one another. After we got home and took our well-needed showers, we had a pizza party for dinner. Tonight we are going to get well rested for our relaxing rest day tomorrow.
– Ian Hill and Jonah Levy
Click here to see more photos of the day
Click here to see video of the building of the casa de quincha.