The Proliferation of the Romanesque Revival Style in America

S.R. Smith Infirmary (Staten Island Castle, endangered)
It is fitting and appropriate that the ever-popular architectural style of the late nineteenth century hearkened back to the Middle Ages in Europe.  Mass production was taking hold in America and the artisan craftsmanship was slowly fading throughout the built environment.  Two British Writers and Artists helped bring about this popular architectural style:  John Ruskin and William Morris admired the individuality and the detailed styles of the Medieval artists of Europe.

H.H. Richarsdon

In America, Staten Island resident Henry Hobson Richardson took the lead in establishing this warm, rich old world style of architecture in many of the public buildings he designed, and in so doing, created a truly new American Style of Architecture.  Red Brick, Turreted Towers, Gothic Arches and Stained Glass Windows were just some of the components that graced the Romanesque Revival.  The S. R. Smith Infirmary is a beautiful example of this exuberant and eclectic style.  Here are some examples:
The Thomas Crane Public Library Quincy, Massachusetts (1882) 
Sever Hall, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts (1878)

Trinity Church, Boston,Massachusetts (1872)

H.H. Richardson Residence (1869-1874) Staten Island
Present exterior renovation has seriously compromised Richardson's design

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