Building an American Identity: Pattern Book Homes and Communities, 1870-1900

Queen Anne or Victorian, these beautiful houses have become nostalgic sites in our historical memory. Linda Smeins explores the development of pattern-book houses, considered the new "modern suburban home" of the late 19th century. Through a discussion of pattern-book designs and plans and pattern-book-inspired houses, Smeins traces the evolution of this architectural style and explores the meanings embodied in the notion of home and community. "Building an American Identity" is an excellent re…