The Wichita lived in grass houses made of forked cedar poles which were covered by dried grass laid in regular rounds in shingle fashion. Each round was held in place by light rods fastened with elm bark to the supporting framework. Shaped like cones, these houses could be as large as 15 to 30 feet across and fit four to twelve beds. They included a central smoke-hole in the roof and doors placed at opposite sides to allow a cross current. These houses were very well made and lasted for many years. The erection of a grass house was accompanied by a ceremony involving prayer, song, dance, and feast.