About Colonial Revival:


This style of American Architecture was commonly used in the period of 1900-1940. Often refered to as neo-Georgian because of it's adaptation of Georgian and federal styles but with the Adam style also being an inspiration. Initially inspired by the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial: new interest in American colonial past. Architects studied colonial styles throughout New England by 1890s. There was a great interest in patriotism and some have suggested that part of this looking back to an idealized colonial past was fueled by Anglo-Saxon America's growing unease with the waves of European immigrants hitting American shores.

Common form of these buildings is simplicity in symmetry. To break up the monotony, very neo-classical touches were added to the builings such as pediments, columns, Palladian windows, medallions and swags, and mouldings. As with all Colonial Revival buildings, they feature strong entrances and cornices. Fairfield State's campus is a fine example of this period's archietecture and style.