In the village of Poolewe, Scotland, in 1890, the gentle pace of life was marked by the sound of hands weaving straw into shelter. Thatched roofs were more than just shields against the rain—they were living memories, passed down through generations, taught from fathers to sons and mothers to daughters.
Thatching, one of the oldest roofing techniques known to humans, dates back to the Neolithic era. Across Europe and Asia, people found that layering natural materials like heather, straw, or reed could create warm, water-resistant homes. In Britain, each region developed its own methods, shaped by the landscape—Scotland preferred heather, while other areas used wheat straw or water reed.
These rooftops were much more than just architecture. They represented resilience, creativity, and a deep connection to the earth. They changed with the seasons, kept out the cold, and stood as early examples of sustainable living long before the term existed. Even today, some rural homes proudly wear their thatched roofs—timeless, textured, and rich with stories.
A roof like that does more than protect a home. It keeps a way of life alive.