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Neoclassical Architecture c. 1780-1850

Approximate Dates 1750 to 1930, with a few stray examples into the 1960s


022 St.Joseph’s Church	003 CASTLE CLINTON	074 St. Peter’s Church	050 FEDERAL HALL	008-Mariner’s Temple.

026-LaGrange Terrace (Colonnade Row)	014 Morris-Jumel Mansion

For later versions of Neo-Classicism, see Late Neoclassical Architecture

There are four main variations or phases of Neoclassicism; these are best described by William Pierson, Jr., in American Buildings and their Architects, vol. I: Colonial and Neoclassic Architecture:

Federalist:
Especially common in New England; a traditionalist approach to classicism, heavily influenced by English models. Charles Bulfinch, Samuel MacIntyre.
Federalist Style

Idealist:
An intellectual and moral approach to classicism, at first linked to Roman models. Symbolic and associational values stressed, with a goal of creating an expressive, "speaking architecture." Best example: Thomas Jefferson.
Jefferson's Idealist Style

Rationalist:
Emphasized structure and classical building techniques, such as stone vaulting and domes. Best example: Benjamin Latrobe.

Greek Revival (1818-1850)
The first truly national style in the United States. Strong associational values. Permeated all levels of building.
The Greek Revival Style

Style Definition
Neo-Classicism is one of many revivals of ancient Greek and Roman styles in the history of architecture. Earlier revivals include the Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Neo-Classical architecture began in the mid-18th century as a return to idealized and authentic classical forms, in reaction to the excesses of Baroque and Rococco interpretations of classicism.

The most common features of the style are colonnades and arches. The façades are nearly always brick or stone. The overall building design usually follows the pattern of the classical column: a pronounced base with a ceremonial entrance, a uniform shaft with little decoration, and a distinctive or pronounced top.

Some major companies known for Neo-Classical output include D.H. Burnham & Company in Chicago, and New York City's Warren & Wetmore, and Cass Gilbert.

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