536 PREHISTORIC VILLAGES IN TENNESSEE [ETH. ANN. 41 
These stones were probably placed near the fire for 
the convenience of the women, who could thus grind and easily look 
after the fire and what might be cooking thereon. 
in pl. 109, a.) 
SmaLL Woop Usrp as FUEL 
In considering these domestic fires, it must be steadily borne in 
mind that they were comparatively small. The Indian was frugal 
in regard to his fires as well as in many other things. The charred 
wood of domestic fires unearthed by us in many places in central 
Tennessee indicates that small limbs, ranging from 1 to 3 inches in 
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Fig. 150.—Diagram of house circle No. 79 
diameter, constituted nearly the entire fuel supply. These sizes 
were such as could often be picked up in the surrounding forest. 
The enormous labor of cutting with their rude stone implements 
prevented the use of wood of large diameter for fuel. 
stand. 
Rires CONNECTED WITH THE METATE 
Explorations showed these three stones for domestic use in circle 
No. 79 had been placed in position with due and proper rites. First 
a small fire had been kindled on the spot where they were later to 
Then a layer of clay, 1 inch in thickness, had been spread 
