The training session underscored the importance of recognizing basic building forms, which serve as crucial indicators for identifying architectural styles. The presenter began by discussing foundational building forms prevalent in older communities such as St. Cloud, highlighting how early structures, often simple in design, are integral to the community’s identity. Despite their lack of ornate features, these early buildings are historically significant and reflect the development of the community. Folk forms like the gable front, I house, hall and parlor layout, and pyramidal forms were discussed, with the presenter stressing the ease of constructing such forms during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

To provide context, the presenter referenced significant historical events such as the Homestead Act of 1862 and the post-Civil War reconstruction era, periods that saw a transformation in construction methods owing to the Industrial Revolution. This era enabled the mass production of building materials, facilitating the construction of homes. The training detailed how simpler designs like the gable front and I house were suitable for both rural and urban settings, with vernacular architecture reflecting regional characteristics through local materials and construction techniques.

The session also explored frame vernacular architecture, characterized by wood frame construction elevated on piers for airflow, which evolved as homes expanded. The presenter identified specific architectural details such as two-over-two windows as indicators of particular time periods, explaining, “if you see windows that are what we call two over two windows… you’re always going to look at that and say, you know, 1860s through like 19 teens.” The transition from frame to masonry vernacular styles was attributed to urbanization and increased fire risks associated with wooden structures. The shift to masonry was a practical response to mitigate fire hazards and aligned with the growth of cities and the influx of residents.

The discussion moved to colonial revival architecture, highlighting its emergence from 1880 to 1955 as a reflection of renewed interest in the United States’ colonial roots. The presenter connected this architectural style’s rise to events like the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia in 1876 and the Spanish-American War in 1898, which spurred national pride and an interest in colonial heritage. The session noted that Colonial Revival homes often featured symmetrical facades, pediments, sidelights, fan lights, six-panel doors, and multi-pane windows. The restoration of Colonial Williamsburg in the 1920s by Reverend W. Godwin and John D. Rockefeller was mentioned as a significant project that influenced this style.

A unique architectural term, “Span Flora style,” was introduced, intended to differentiate St. Cloud from other communities. This led to a broader discussion on the unique architectural identity of St. Cloud compared to other communities.

The Craftsman style, prevalent from 1905 to around 1930, was also covered. The presenter explained that the Craftsman style emerged from the Arts and Crafts movement, emphasizing handmade craftsmanship as a response to industrialization. Characteristics of Craftsman homes include prominent front gables, large porches, tapered columns, and the use of natural materials like unpainted brick and exposed wood. A notable reference was made to the Green and Green architectural firm from California, credited with creating a landmark Craftsman-style home in Pasadena in 1905.

The session then transitioned to ranch-style homes, clarifying that this architectural style began gaining popularity in the mid-1930s, earlier than commonly believed. The suburban development boom post-World War II, driven by returning soldiers seeking affordable housing and facilitated by the GI Bill, was a critical factor in the rise of ranch-style homes. The presenter noted that ranch homes, characterized by expansive, single-story designs with low-pitched roofs and large windows, were integral to the American dream of homeownership. The incorporation of garages and carports into residential designs marked a shift from earlier practices.

A discussion on the historical context of home construction during the early 20th century included anecdotes about families living in tents while their homes were being built, a common practice in St. Cloud. The completion of a historical survey of a specific area, referred to as the grid survey area, was also mentioned, with the survey expected to provide valuable insights into the area’s development.