The Hard Shelled Gourd: its use as a container

The hard shelled gourd of the species Lagenaria has been in use as a container by man for many centuries. Its utilitarian design combined with its durability has made it a common item of use from primitive man through present day societies.

This website has come into being because of the numerous inquiries I have had regarding using these wood-like natural containers for historical living history lifestyle portrayals.

This site contains links to using gourds as containers for liquids as in gourd canteens. Also there are photos on this page showing different styles of gourds, relative sizes and some other art ideas that the gourd lends itself to.

Please note that I do not have any historical documentation as to the different styles that had been used in the 18th Century. I have seen the use of dipper gourds and small bottle gourds in some 18th Century artifact collections but that is the extent of the documentation. Although somewhat sturdy the gourd container will grow fragile with age and this may be one reason that there are not a lot of existing specimens.

From time to time I may add to this page as I see fit. Possibly some horticultural info would be nice. I have been growing Lagenaria type gourds in NE Pa for nearly 25 years and have grown some pretty rare varieties, although the long growing season of these gourds makes it a real challenge.

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