Architecture - Midieval English/ Early Colonial Style

The early settlers adopted many practices of the Native Americans. Their need for shelter led them to build makeshift wigwams in the hillsides similar to the native neighbors. These mud hut type structures were soon replaced with more of a traditional English structure. The still primitive single room structures were created using hand cut beams with thatch roofs. The gaps between the beams filled with mud and sticks. Unfortunately, due to changes in temperature gaps would appear, and the thatch did not weather well either.

Between 1600 and 1740 the post medieval English/early colonial style reflects the early cultures greatest concern of functionality; the early settlers had rather simple humble structures. These early colonists also were also driven by their values and strong religions convictions for living simply. This is very apparent when looking at the style of architecture of this time period. The homes were designed and build to serve the purpose of shelter from the cold. They were used for eating, rest, and duties to keep the home functioning. The structures were very small and boxy with a simple hall and parlor floor
plan. They tend to be one room deep and one and a half stories tall. The small upper loft area, known as a garret, was often used for storage or sleeping. Their steep roofs had a large chimney in the center for heating and indoor cooking. They are designed with few windows and a strong board and batten door that would serve the purpose of keeping those inside safe and secure. The outside of the structure is very plan and have minimal decoration and unpainted exterior walls.

(Wells Thorn House Ell, 2011)

Works Cited
"Architecture Glossary." American Centuries: History and Art from New England. Web.
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"Coleman-Hollister House." American Centuries: History and Art from New England.
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England. Web. 12 Jan. 2011.
"New England Architecture." New England Travel. Web. 12 Jan. 2011.
Roth, Leland M. "English Settlements." American Architecture A History. Boulder:
Westview, 2001. 15-56. Print.
Survey of Architecture | ART3020 UB. Week One Online Lecture: Colonial America, 12
Jan 2011.
"Wells Thorn House Ell." American Centuries: History and Art from New England. Web.
12 Jan. 2011.
"Wells Thorn House Main Building." American Centuries: History and Art from New
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