When we think about the American frontier, images of isolation, privation and strenuous labor can come to mind. Life on the frontier certainly was difficult and dangerous. A homesteader’s first year was often a frantic race to establish his family before the Read more…
A recent book by Fred Peterson titled Homes in the Heartland describes the evolution of the balloon-frame farmhouse in the upper Midwest. Peterson notes one characteristic of many, first generation farmhouses: an eclectic nature where they were built in stages with several additions. Read more…
When people think of 19th century houses they often imagine grand Queen Anne homes with towers, elaborate porches and oodles spindles, brackets and fretwork. However, if you read through my blog you might have noticed that there isn’t much devoted to Read more…
I enjoy doing demonstrations for local historical organizations and civic groups where I show people how furniture and millwork were made during the 19th century. Visitors who watch my demonstrations usually use several different words to describe me, including carpenter, wood carver, wood Read more…
“What style is my house?” This is a common query from homeowners as they wonder how their home fits into the local architectural landscape. This is, however, a question that can be difficult to answer. Is a house a Victorian, Read more…
Many 19th century building styles, including the Federal, Greek Revival, Gothic Revival and Italianate, were inspired by historic precedents and featured antique details such as lancet arches, brackets and classical architraves. Around the middle of the century, however, some Americans opted for Read more…
An important ritual for many American men during the 19th century was a weekly trip to the barber shop for a shave. The barbershop was a social hub in large cities and small towns alike as men congregated to gossip, Read more…
Plaster has served as a durable coating for interior walls in both high style and common buildings for centuries. 19th century wall plaster was made from four ingredients: lime, sand aggregate, fiber and water. The lime was the most important part Read more…
There are conflicting messages about using pressure washers when prepping building exteriors for painting. Some insist that pressure washers should never be used while others maintain that they are just fine and use them both for paint removal and cleaning. Which is Read more…