Balloon frame

A construction method eliminated the

massive timbers and pegged joints,

substituting lighter boards that were nailed

together. Vertical studs extend the full height

of the wall of a balloon frame building, and

floor joists are fastened to the studs with

nails.

Wisconsin Historicol Society

http://www.wisconsinhistory.org/dictionary/index.asp?action=view&term_id=9276&term_t

ype_id=3&term_type_text=things