What is the fundamental architectural concept of a connected farm?

A connected farm is an architectural design where a farmhouse, kitchen, barn, or other farm structures are physically linked together in a rambling fashion. This design is common in the New England region of the United States, as well as in England and Wales in the United Kingdom.

What was the primary practical reason for the development of the connected farm style in New England?

The connected farm style in New England evolved primarily to allow farmers to carry out their daily farm work while remaining sheltered from the harsh winter weather. This design minimized exposure to the elements by creating a continuous indoor pathway between essential buildings.

How do connected farms in the United Kingdom differ from those in the New England style?

While connected farms exist in both regions, the United Kingdom features four distinct types of connected farmsteads, all of which are dissimilar in their specific architectural configurations and purposes compared to the New England style.

What is depicted in the image provided in the source material regarding a connected farm?

The source material includes an image of a connected farm located in Windham, Maine. This particular farm features a barn from the late 18th century, a house constructed in three stages during the 19th century, and an unconnected 20th-century garage addition. The image, taken from the south side, shows all doors of the structure, where winter sun would help melt snow and ice, and notes that only one American elm tree remains from a line that once provided summer shade, due to the 20th-century outbreak of Dutch elm disease.

What are the typical components of a New England connected farm complex?

A typical New England connected farm complex consists of a 'big house' for family living, a 'little house' containing the kitchen area, a 'back house' traditionally used for carriages or wagons, and a standard livestock barn, all connected sequentially.

When did the bans on connected farm structures, due to fire concerns, get lifted in many areas?

Bans on connected farm structures, which were initially implemented in many areas due to fire concerns, were lifted during the 18th century, allowing for the more widespread adoption of this architectural style.

How did the 'little house' evolve in New England connected farms after 1800?

In later years, specifically after 1800, as kitchens became more integrated as a room within the main dwelling, the 'little house' transitioned into an ell, which is a wing or extension, off the 'big house'.

What is a key characteristic of the New England connected farmstead as described by architectural historians?

Architectural historians describe the New England connected farmstead as a unique style where numerous farm buildings, including houses, ells, sheds, barns, and other outbuildings, are all combined into one continuous, long structure.

What range of architectural styles could be observed in New England connected farmsteads?

The architectural styles of New England connected farmsteads varied, encompassing designs from Greek Revival, which draws inspiration from ancient Greek architecture, to Gothic Revival, which emulates medieval Gothic forms.

What made the architectural style of the connected farmstead particularly unique, beyond just the connection of buildings?

The connected farmstead was unique not only for linking the house to the barn and shed but also because the architectural style of the main home was often extended and applied to the other connected structures, including the barns.

Which type of barn was most commonly found in connected farms during their popular period?

The period when connected farms were popular coincided with the prevalence of the New England barn style, so most connected barns are of this type. Occasionally, older English barns were also moved or connected to houses.

In which New England states were connected farms most frequently found during the 19th century?

During the 19th century, connected farms were common throughout New England, but they were most frequently found in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts.

Who conducted a survey of existing connected farmsteads in New England in 1958, and what did he find?

Wilbur Zelinsky, an American geographer, undertook a survey of existing connected farmsteads in New England in 1958. He found that the connected farm was most frequently located in specific parts of New England, particularly in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, where connected barns were prevalent across almost the entire states, and also in southern Maine, eastern Vermont, and parts of northern Connecticut.

Which popular television series featured the remodeling of a connected farm homestead?

The PBS television series 'This Old House' remodeled a homestead built in the connected farm style, which was located in Carlisle, Massachusetts.

What unique architectural style developed on the Delmarva Peninsula during the colonial period and into the 19th century?

On the Delmarva Peninsula, particularly on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Virginia, farmers developed a unique style of farmhouse known as the Eastern Shore Style, or 'big house, little house, colonnade and kitchen,' which grew as the owner prospered.

Describe the typical progression of additions to an Eastern Shore Style farmhouse.

The first section of an Eastern Shore Style farmhouse was usually a small 1½-story wood-frame home with a dormered roof, referred to as the 'little house.' As the farmer became more prosperous and their family expanded, a larger two-story addition, known as the 'big house,' was typically added.

What was the purpose of the summer kitchen in Delmarva Peninsula farmhouses, and what was often located above it?

The summer kitchen in Delmarva Peninsula farmhouses was an outbuilding detached from the main house, designed to remove the heat generated by cooking from the living quarters during warmer months. This kitchen often had an attic above it, which was used for slave lodgings.

How was the summer kitchen eventually integrated into the main farmhouse in the Delmarva region?

On many Eastern Shore farms, a colonnade, which is a long sequence of columns joined by an entablature, was later added to connect the detached summer kitchen to the farmhouse, thereby creating the historically common 'Big house, little house, colonnade & kitchen' architectural style.

What is a key difference between Delmarva Peninsula connected farmsteads and New England connected farmsteads regarding barn placement?

Unlike New England connected farmsteads where barns were typically attached to the house, in the Delmarva region, winters are milder, and while the barn was usually nearby, it was not attached to the main house.

Who identified the four key types of connected farm structures found in England and Wales?

The architectural historian Ronald Brunskill identified four key types of connected farm structures that have existed in England and Wales for centuries.

What are the characteristics of a 'longhouse' in the context of connected farms in the United Kingdom?

A longhouse in the UK is generally composed of two connected buildings that result from either adding more partitions to an existing structure or constructing a new building adjacent to the original. These longhouses typically feature cross passages, allowing for free communication throughout the connected structures.

How does a 'laithe house' differ from a 'longhouse' in the UK's connected farm typology?

In a laithe house, the family and the farm building are confined under the same roof, similar to a longhouse. However, a key distinction is that there are no cross passages and no intercommunication between the structures in a laithe house, which often includes farm buildings used for both livestock and grain or hay storage.

What was the primary function and typical arrangement of a 'bastle house'?

A bastle house is a type of connected farm arrangement where the living quarters are placed above the farm building, usually above the farm animals. This configuration was common as a defensive measure, with living quarters situated higher up for security reasons.

Describe what Ronald Brunskill termed the 'simply connected arrangement' in the United Kingdom.

Ronald Brunskill's 'simply connected arrangement' refers to a configuration where a domestic structure is connected to any type of farm building, without the specific characteristics or defensive purposes seen in other UK connected farm types.

When did North American connected farms begin to appear?

North American connected farms date back to the 17th century, indicating a long history of this architectural style in the region.

What was the traditional use of the 'back house' in a New England connected farm complex?

The 'back house' in a New England connected farm complex was traditionally used as a carriage or wagon house, providing shelter for vehicles and equipment.

What was the original roofline characteristic of the four buildings in a New England connected farm?

Originally, all four buildings in a New England connected farm complex, including the 'big house,' 'little house,' 'back house,' and barn, would have parallel roof lines, contributing to a cohesive architectural appearance.

What is the significance of the architectural style of the home being used on other connected structures in New England farmsteads?

The application of the home's architectural style to other connected structures, such as barns and sheds, was considered a truly radical development by New England farmers, highlighting a unique integration of design across the entire farm complex.

What does the term 'ell' refer to in the context of New England farmhouse architecture?

In New England farmhouse architecture, an 'ell' refers to a wing or extension that projects from the main body of a house, often at a right angle, as seen when the 'little house' became an ell off the 'big house' after 1800.

What is the general description of the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Virginia?

The Eastern Shore of Maryland and Virginia refers to the eastern part of the Delmarva Peninsula, a landmass located on the Chesapeake Bay.

Why was the summer kitchen often located near the main house on Eastern Shore farms?

The summer kitchen was often located near the main house on Eastern Shore farms to allow for the convenient delivery of meals while the food was still hot, despite being a detached structure.

What is a colonnade, and how was it used in Delmarva Peninsula architecture?

A colonnade is a row of columns supporting a roof or entablature. In Delmarva Peninsula architecture, a colonnade was added to connect the detached summer kitchen to the main farmhouse, forming a continuous structure.

What climatic factor influenced the difference in barn attachment between New England and the Delmarva Peninsula?

The milder winters in the Delmarva region, compared to New England, influenced the architectural practice there, meaning that barns were typically not attached to the main house, unlike in the colder New England climate.

What does the term 'partitions' refer to in the description of a longhouse?

In the context of a longhouse, 'partitions' refer to internal dividing walls that subdivide the structure into different areas or rooms, contributing to its expansion and functional separation.

What types of farm buildings were typically included under the same roof as the family in a 'laithe house'?

In a 'laithe house,' farm buildings used for both livestock and the storage of grain or hay were typically confined under the same roof as the family living quarters.

What is the primary characteristic that defines a 'connected barn' in New England?

A 'connected barn' in New England is defined by its integration into other structures on a farm, forming part of a continuous building complex rather than standing as a separate, detached structure.

What is the title of Thomas Hubka's 1984 book on connected farms?

Thomas Hubka's 1984 book on connected farms is titled 'Big House, Little House, Back House, Barn: The Connected Farm Buildings of New England'.

Which specific parts of northern Connecticut were noted by Zelinsky for having connected farms?

Wilbur Zelinsky observed connected farms in portions of northern Connecticut during his 1958 survey.

What is the architectural term for a small 1½-story wood-frame home with a dormered roof, as described in the Delmarva Peninsula style?

In the Delmarva Peninsula's Eastern Shore Style, the initial small 1½-story wood-frame home with a dormered roof was referred to as the 'little house'.

What historical context is associated with the attic above the summer kitchen on Delmarva Peninsula farms?

The attic above the summer kitchen on Delmarva Peninsula farms often served as lodgings for slaves during the colonial period and into the 19th century.

What is the full name of the architectural historian who identified four types of connected farm structures in England and Wales?

The full name of the architectural historian who identified four key types of connected farm structures in England and Wales is Ronald Brunskill.

What does 'intercommunication' refer to in the context of a laithe house?

In the context of a laithe house, 'intercommunication' refers to the ability to move freely or directly between the different connected structures, such as the family living quarters and the farm buildings, which is notably absent in this specific type of connected farm.

What is the general time frame for the existence of connected structures in England and Wales?

Connected structures have existed in England and Wales for several centuries, indicating a long-standing tradition of this architectural approach in the United Kingdom.

What is the primary difference in communication flow between a longhouse and a laithe house?

The primary difference is that longhouses usually have cross passages allowing free communication throughout the structures, whereas laithe houses have no cross passages and no intercommunication between the family and farm sections.

What is the significance of the term 'rambling fashion' when describing connected farms?

The term 'rambling fashion' indicates that the connected structures are often added in an irregular or informal manner, creating an extended, often asymmetrical, complex rather than a rigidly planned or symmetrical layout.

What is the name of the journal in which Wilbur Zelinsky's 1958 survey of connected barns was published?

Wilbur Zelinsky's 1958 survey, 'The New England Connecting Barn,' was published in the 'Geographical Review' journal.

What is the title of Pauline Chase-Harrell's 1985 review related to connected farm buildings?

Pauline Chase-Harrell's 1985 review was titled 'Review of Big House, Little House, Back House, Barn: The Connected Farm Buildings of New England,' published in 'The New England Quarterly'.

Connected Farm Wiki: Architectural Symbiosis: The Enduring Legacy of Connected Farmsteads

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What is a Connected Farm?

Integrated Rural Architecture

A connected farm represents a distinctive architectural design where various farm structures, such as the farmhouse, kitchen, and barn, are physically linked in a continuous, often rambling, fashion. This style is notably prevalent in the New England region of the United States, as well as in parts of England and Wales in the United Kingdom. These integrated complexes have historical roots stretching back several centuries, reflecting a pragmatic response to environmental and operational demands.

A Response to Climate

The primary impetus behind the evolution of the connected farmstead, particularly in North America, was the necessity to conduct daily farm work while remaining sheltered from harsh winter weather. By linking essential buildings, farmers could move between living quarters, food preparation areas, and livestock shelters without venturing outdoors, thereby enhancing efficiency and comfort during severe cold and snow. This ingenious adaptation underscores a deep understanding of local climate and resource management.

The New England Model

The "Big House, Little House" Layout

The quintessential New England connected farm complex typically comprises a sequence of structures, each serving a distinct function. It begins with the "big house," which functions as the primary family residence. Adjacent to this is the "little house," traditionally housing the kitchen area. Following this, the "back house" historically served as a carriage or wagon shed. The sequence culminates with a standard livestock barn, directly connected to the back house. Initially, these four primary buildings often featured parallel roof lines, creating a cohesive visual flow. However, post-1800, as kitchens became more integrated into the main living space, the "little house" frequently evolved into an "ell" — an architectural wing extending from the "big house."

Architectural Cohesion

A defining characteristic of the New England connected farmstead is the seamless integration of numerous farm buildings into a single, continuous structure. Houses, ells, sheds, barns, and other outbuildings are combined to form one elongated edifice. Architectural styles, ranging from Greek Revival to Gothic Revival, were often applied consistently across the entire complex, extending the aesthetic order of the main house to all connected structures, including the barns. This practice was a truly innovative development by New England farmers, distinguishing their connected farms from mere functional linkages.

Noted architectural historian Thomas Hubka eloquently captured this unique aspect in his 1984 work, Big House, Little House, Back House, Barn:

"Those who built connected farms changed their farms by extending the architectural style and order of the house to their barns. This was a truly radical development by New England farmers, and it is this characteristic, more than that of house and barn connection itself, that is one of the unique aspects of New England connected farm architecture."

This observation highlights the deliberate design choice to elevate the functional farm buildings to the same architectural standard as the dwelling.

Geographic Distribution

These distinctive structures were widespread throughout New England during the 19th century, with particular concentrations observed in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts. A comprehensive survey conducted in 1958 by American geographer Wilbur Zelinsky meticulously mapped the distribution of existing connected farmsteads. Zelinsky's findings indicated that connected barns and farmsteads were most frequently encountered across nearly the entire states of New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Significant prevalence was also noted in southern Maine, eastern Vermont, and specific areas of northern Connecticut. The enduring appeal of this style is evident as it continues to influence popular American architecture, with examples even featured on television programs like PBS's This Old House, which remodeled a homestead in Carlisle, Massachusetts.

Delmarva Peninsula Style

"Big House, Little House, Colonnade & Kitchen"

During the colonial era and extending into the 19th century, farmers on the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay developed a unique architectural style known as the Eastern Shore Style, or more descriptively, "big house, little house, colonnade and kitchen." This design allowed farmhouses to expand incrementally as the owner's prosperity grew. The initial dwelling, often a modest 1.5-story wood-frame home with a dormered roof, constituted the "little house." As fortunes improved and families expanded, a larger, two-story "big house" addition was typically constructed.

Climate-Driven Adaptations

A key feature of the Delmarva style was the summer kitchen, an outbuilding intentionally detached from the main house. This separation served to mitigate the heat generated by cooking, keeping the primary living quarters cooler during the warmer months. These kitchens often included an attic space, which traditionally provided lodgings for enslaved individuals. While located near the main house to ensure meals could be delivered hot, the connection was not always immediate. Over time, a colonnade was frequently added to link the kitchen to the farmhouse, creating the characteristic continuous structure seen in many 18th and 19th-century homes, such as Selma. Crucially, due to the milder winters prevalent in the Delmarva region, barns, though usually situated nearby, were generally not attached to the main residential complex, a distinct difference from their New England counterparts.

Connected Farms in the UK

Centuries of Integrated Design

The concept of connected farm structures has a long and rich history in England and Wales, predating many North American examples by centuries. Architectural historian Ronald Brunskill meticulously identified four distinct categories of connected farm buildings prevalent in these regions. These British styles, while sharing the principle of integration, exhibit structural and functional characteristics that set them apart from the New England model, reflecting different agricultural practices, social structures, and climatic conditions.

Longhouse and Laithe House

Among Brunskill's classifications, the **longhouse** typically consists of two connected buildings. This configuration often arose from the gradual addition of partitions, subdividing an existing structure, or through the direct construction of a new building adjacent to an original one. Longhouses are characterized by the presence of cross passages, facilitating free communication and movement throughout the integrated complex. In contrast, the **laithe house** design places both the family's living quarters and the farm buildings under a single roof. However, a key distinction is the absence of cross passages, meaning there is no direct internal communication between the domestic and agricultural sections. Laithe houses commonly incorporated spaces for both livestock and the storage of grain or hay.

Bastle House and Simple Arrangement

The **bastle house** represents a unique defensive form of connected farmstead. In this arrangement, the living quarters are strategically positioned above the farm building, typically over the animal stalls. This elevated placement served a crucial security function, offering protection against raids and conflicts common in certain historical periods. Finally, Brunskill described the "simply connected arrangement" as a broad category where any type of domestic structure is linked to any type of farm building. This classification encompasses a wide variety of less formalized or less structurally prescriptive connections, highlighting the diverse ways in which farm life and work were integrated across the British landscape.

Historical Context & Evolution

Drivers of Integration

The development of connected farmsteads was a direct response to the practical challenges of rural life, particularly in regions with severe winters. The ability to perform essential farm tasks—from tending livestock to preparing meals—without exposure to the elements significantly improved the quality of life and operational efficiency for farming families. This architectural innovation allowed for a more centralized and protected workflow, minimizing energy expenditure and maximizing productivity during colder months. The evolution also reflects a desire for economic prosperity, as farmers expanded their dwellings and outbuildings, integrating them into a cohesive unit.

Early Regulations and Adaptations

While the connected farm design offered considerable advantages, it also presented inherent risks, most notably fire hazards. The close proximity of living spaces to barns, often containing highly flammable materials like hay and straw, led to early prohibitions in many areas. However, the practical benefits of these integrated structures eventually outweighed the concerns, leading to the lifting of these bans in the 18th century. This regulatory shift allowed the connected farmstead to flourish, particularly in New England, where its design became a hallmark of regional vernacular architecture, adapting and evolving over time to meet changing needs and technologies.

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Architectural Symbiosis: The Enduring Legacy of Connected Farmsteads

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

What is a Connected Farm? ℹ️

🔗 Integrated Rural Architecture

❄️ A Response to Climate

The New England Model 🇺🇸

🏠 The "Big House, Little House" Layout

📐 Architectural Cohesion

🗺️ Geographic Distribution

Delmarva Peninsula Style 🌊

📈 "Big House, Little House, Colonnade & Kitchen"

☀️ Climate-Driven Adaptations

Connected Farms in the UK 🇬🇧

🕰️ Centuries of Integrated Design

🏡 Longhouse and Laithe House

🛡️ Bastle House and Simple Arrangement

Historical Context & Evolution 📜

🌱 Drivers of Integration

🔥 Early Regulations and Adaptations

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is a Connected Farm?

Integrated Rural Architecture

A Response to Climate

The New England Model

The "Big House, Little House" Layout

Architectural Cohesion

Geographic Distribution

Delmarva Peninsula Style

"Big House, Little House, Colonnade & Kitchen"

Climate-Driven Adaptations

Connected Farms in the UK

Centuries of Integrated Design

Longhouse and Laithe House

Bastle House and Simple Arrangement

Historical Context & Evolution

Drivers of Integration

Early Regulations and Adaptations

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice