A Road Scholar program by R. Stephen Sennott

The American ranch house represents a place in the post-World War II built environment where suburban middle-class values, aspirations, habits, and family ritual converge. An optimistic nation free of wartime restrictions and in pursuit of the American dream wanted an adorable “modern” or “contemporary” house that allowed for outdoor living while still satisfying the mobile suburban lifestyle. Examine house plans and popular literature to learn how builders and advertisers in the 1940s and 1950s promoted suburban life in the ranch house when popular culture offered many alternatives.

For more information contact Kristin Hoxie, 217.224.6873.