Distinctive architecture can enhance fine colleges, buildings and homes. The architecture at Hampden-Sydney College is no exception. While taking a road trip last Saturday, I had the opportunity to enjoy many examples of Federal architecture that adorn the campus.
Often called America's first national style, Federal architecture enjoyed its heyday during 1780-1830. According to Jackie Dishner's article on this architectural style in www.frontdoor.com, Federal architecture is known for five key elements: a front facade, columns, windows, steps and brick.
For example, curved steps with iron railing leading to the entry and brick are typical components of this style. The University of Virginia also offers some famous examples of this architectural style admired by Thomas Jefferson.
The following photos help give a glimpse of the campus of Hampden-Sydney, located just five miles south of Farmville Virginia and 50 miles east of Lynchburg. However, I also would highly recommend visiting this 1300-acre campus in person to get a sense of the full scale of buildings present!
Atkinson Hall, above, serves as the college's administration building along with other functions.
Atkinson Hall, dated 1834, falls right after the end of Federal architecture's heyday.
Above is one of several historical markers found on the campus of Hampden-Sydney College.
Above is a frontal view of The Birthplace, a 1750s building pre-dating Federal architecture.
A side view of The Birthplace, shown above, offers another point of interest on campus.
One other example of Federal architecture found at Hampden-Sydney is Cushing Hall. This building was started in 1822 and completed in two sections: the east wing and center section by 1824, and the west section by 1833. To see a photo of this building, click this link: Cushing Hall.
A couple examples of Federal style Virginia homes are Talbott Hall in Norfolk, and Woodlawn Plantation in Alexandria, which also has Georgian influences. Georgian Colonial and Federal styles can be easily confused. According to Jackie Craven, the earlier Georgian homes are square and angular, and a Federal home is likely to include "curved lines and decorative flourishes" in its style. Federal style details still are used in many American homes built today.
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