Abstract: To understand the seismic performance of post-and-lintel timber frame of traditional residences in north China's villages, three full-scale specimens based on the prototype were fabricated and tested subjected to pseudo-static cyclic lateral loading. The seismic performances of the timber frames (including the mechanical characteristics, the hysteretic and skeleton curves, the strength and stiffness degradation, and energy dissipation) were studied and the effects of various pedestal and loading conditions on lateral force resisting performance of timber frames were revealed. Results show that the wooden frame is a rocking self centering system with variable stiffness. The timber frames behave the uplift of column foot and obvious deformation of joints with pulled-out Mantou tenons. The P-Δ effect of the timber frame subjected to the vertical load is obvious and it cannot be ignored. The wooden frame in large deformation situation cannot self center and it can restore the original position relying on external loads to great extents. The timber frame in the condition of allowance of column foot to slip behaves obviously rocking characteristics subjected to cyclic loading with lower energy dissipation, more serious pinching effect, compared to those in the condition of column foot limitation. However, the timber frame in the condition of allowance of column foot to slip can preserve Mantou mortise-tenon joints to some extent than that of the condition of column foot limitation. The increase of the vertical load is beneficial to improve the lateral resistance of the timber frame. The timber frame at the place of the gable wall is easier to lead into the insufficiencies of the lateral resistance capacity and energy dissipation capacity, due to low compression loads from roof weights. The research results will provide a scientific basis for the seismic evaluation, repair and reinforcement of the "four beams and eight columns" wooden residences in north China's villages.