West Virginia University Press is pleased to announce the publication of “Uncommon Vernacular: The Early Houses of Jefferson County, West Virginia, 1735-1835.”

Author John C. Allen Jr. explores and preserves this historic area’s rich architectural heritage within this highly designed book adorned with over 700 stylish photographs by Walter Smalling and elegant drawings, floor plans, and maps by Andrew Lewis.

In this fascinating architectural exploration, Allen focuses on dwellings built from the mid-18th Century to the arrival of the railroad and canal in 1835. He unfolds the unique story of this area’s early building traditions and architectural innovations. The 250 buildings included in this work—from the plantation homes of the Washington family to the log houses of yeomen farmers—reveal the unique development of this region, as Allen categorizes structures and establishes patterns of construction, plan, and style.

Allen’s refreshing perspective illuminates the vibrant vernacular architecture of Jefferson County, connecting the housing of this area to the rich history of the Shenandoah Valley. Varying features of house siting, plan types, construction techniques, building materials, outbuildings, and exterior and interior detailing illustrate the blending of German, Scots-Irish, English, and African cultures into a distinct, regional style.

John C. Allen Jr. works as a preservation coordinator and architectural historian near Shepherdstown, W.Va. He serves as the chairman of the Historic Landmarks Commission of Jefferson County. Illustrator Andrew Lewis is an award-winning licensed architect. Walter Smalling Jr., a Washington architectural photographer, began his professional career with the National Park Service and has worked as a freelance photographer since 1988.

An exhibit featuring photographs from this book will be on display from Sept. 9-11 at the War Memorial Building in Shepherdstown as well as the American Institute of Architects in Washington, D.C., during November.

“Uncommon Vernacular :http://wvupressonline.com/allen_uncommon_vernacular_9781933202877” can be purchased from WVU Press at www.wvupress.com. The first chapter and several images from this book can be previewed on this site as well.

September 2011 � 384pp � 702 bw images � 80+ drawings � 120 floor plans
HC/J 978-1-933202-87-7 � $49.99

-WVU-

CONTACT: Abby Freeland, WVU Press Marketing Manager
304-293-8400 ext. 33508, Abby.Freeland@mail.wvu.edu

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