The birth of American architectural identity through classical revival and democratic ideals
Photo from Wikipedia (Public Domain) - U.S. Custom House (1850) - prime example of Federal architecture
Birth of American Architectural Identity
In the 18th century, a new American movement began to carve its national identity in the world. A famous architectural style in the country, which had the historical markings of the colonial past and lined the streets of its most prominent cities, was initially brought over by laborers and wealthy patrons, refined itself with its own characteristics, and later transformed into a unique American movement.
As it became known, the Federalist architectural style began to define the look and feel of the new nation's most important buildings and private residences.
Era of Growth
"The Federalist Era was a time of progression and growth for the United States. In this time the Federalist party was formed, the Constitution was adopted and the federal government expanded. The democracy of ancient Greece and the republic of Rome influenced the government."
"Naturally, design reflected the growth in the country and American Federal architecture drew from Roman classicism to create something entirely new and unique."
Throughout modern history, design concepts and traditions from classical antiquity have dominated Western aesthetics. Rules from classicism in the disciplines of architecture and art were followed as canon and considered standard practice.
Classical Ideals
Architects throughout the Western hemisphere looked up to the works of Ancient Greece and Rome. These modern architects conjured novel ways to execute the landmark classical ideals of simplicity and symmetry.
British Influence: Adam Style
In Britain, Scottish architect William Adam and his sons developed what became known as the "Adam style," a neoclassical approach that would significantly influence American architecture.
Transatlantic Influence
In the new world, the freshly minted Americans were impressed by these architects working across the pond. Robert Adam and his "Adam style" influenced the construction of buildings in the Federalist era.
Symbolic Connection to Democracy
Ancient Democratic Ideals
The burgeoning generation of Americans wanted to associate the brand-new country with the legacies of ancient Greek democracy and the republicanism of ancient Rome. Thus, the "Adam" style, or modernization of the Georgian style, was adopted as the preferred aesthetic of the land's elite.
Political Symbolism
Federal architecture became a visual representation of American democratic values and aspirations, connecting the new nation to the classical republics of antiquity.
The Federalist era of government is considered to have begun with the constitution's ratification and ended with the Democratic-Republican party winning the presidency, a political party formed by Thomas Jefferson.
Meanwhile, the Federal style of architecture, named for existing in concurrence with the political period, lasted from the end of the 18th century into the mid 19th century. Found throughout most cities on the eastern coast of the U.S., the Federal style, after its colonial predecessor, became the second major movement to define American architecture.
Identifying Federal Architecture
The main components that help to identify Federalist architecture are symmetrical forms and arrangements of windows and doors on the building's elevations. Architects most commonly used these distinctive features:
Exterior Features
Symmetrical forms and arrangements of windows and doors
Fan lights over doors
Flat lintels over windows
Side windows flanking the front doors
Double-hung windows with muntins (vertical dividers) separating glass panels
Front door crowns or entry porches
Large three-part Venetian or Palladian windows
Regional Variations
While maintaining core classical principles, Federal architecture adapted to local materials, climate, and building traditions across different regions of the early United States.
Federal Architecture in Savannah
Historic Preservation Success
Many excellent examples of Federal style architecture exist in Savannah, Georgia, one of America's most storied and well-preserved cities. Renowned as one of the oldest cities in the south, the city's preservation efforts have aided in conserving its unique American history.
Isaiah Davenport House
In Savannah's Historic District, examples like the Isaiah Davenport House are magnificent demonstrations of the Federal style.
The Lachlan Macintosh house, which once hosted George Washington in 1791, is a classic example of Federal architecture in Savannah.
1780s - Style Emergence
Federal style begins to emerge following Constitution ratification, influenced by British Adam style and classical revival.
1790s-1810s - Peak Period
Federal architecture reaches its height during the early republic, symbolizing American democratic ideals and classical education.
1820s-1840s - Regional Adaptation
Style adapts to local materials and climate across different regions, maintaining classical principles while developing regional characteristics.
Mid-19th Century - Style Transition
Federal style gradually gives way to Greek Revival and other architectural movements as American architecture continues to evolve.