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Greek Revival
c.1840-1860
Greek Revival
was the first and most popular of several romantic revivals that dominated
nineteenth-century American architecture. After the War of 1812, Americans
desired to sever their strong cultural bonds with Britain. As a result, the
American people sought an architectural style that reflected their
increasingly democratic values and aspirations. Inspiration came from the
architecture of ancient Greece.
Several important factors account for the
Greek "mania" that swept across America in the early nineteenth century.
Archeological discoveries in Greece, and later the Greek War for
Independence (1821-30), aroused much interest and sympathy among Americans.
In addition, the Greek Revival style, remotely patterned after the temples
of ancient Greece, was a bolder and more vigorous style than the refined and
delicate Federal style and better suited the American landscape.
It also was consistent with Americans' view
of themselves as the successors to Athenian Democracy. Thus, it is no
accident that the style's popularity was at its height during a period of
general political liberalization. By the time the Greek Revival style had
run its course, it could be found in all settled areas of the United States
and reflected in buildings of virtually every function.
The chief features of the style are the
often minimal references to ancient Greek temples found in such elements as
gable or
pedimented fronts, wide
entablature moldings,
cornice returns, doors with paneled
jambs and classical
surrounds. Less common, though present in many high-style examples, are
classical
porticos.
Greek Revival: Willan
House, 109 South Jefferson Street, Martinsville
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