Final answer:
The shotgun house combatted heat and humidity primarily through cross-ventilation, which is a key feature of its design, allowing air to flow from front to back.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distinctive design solution of the shotgun house in the Southern hearth that dealt with local heat and humidity was cross-ventilation. This architectural feature maximized airflow throughout the structure, given the alignment of doors and windows, allowing a breeze to flow from the front to the back of the house. The long, narrow shape contributed to this airflow efficiency. Additionally, the design often included high ceilings to allow hot air to rise away from living spaces and large front porches that provided shade.
Other strategies to combat local climate challenges in Southern folk housing included pier and beam construction, which elevated the home to protect against rot and termites while also facilitating airflow underneath. The use of materials like cypress wood, known for its resistance to rot and insects, was also part of these climate adaptation techniques.