FAST FACTS ON CARPENTER Gothic Architecture

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This is rural America’s wooden version of the more widely spread Gothic revival architecture of the 19th century.

For homes and churches, American carpenters recreated in wood Gothic features commonly carved in stone—pointed arches, steep gables, towers and other ornamentation. New technology like scroll saws and jigsaws powered their creativity.

Remember that house in the background of the famous painting (the dour farmer couple with the pitchfork)? That’s Carpenter Gothic.

The trim around the eaves of Steeple View Manor’s porch is one hallmark of Carpenter Gothic: carved bargeboard. Other Carpenter Gothic features include board-andbatten siding and jigsaw details.