Foursquares: An iconic American house of early 20th century Hopewell

Foursquares: An iconic American house of early 20th century Hopewell

Ian Burrow discusses the Foursquare house, an American icon of the early 20th century, still prevalent in Hopewell Borough today

By Hopewell Valley Historical Society

Date and time

Starts on Wednesday, May 22 · 4pm PDT

Location

Online

About this event

  • 1 hour

This registration is ONLY for the online Zoom presentation of the event. See below to attend in person.

So common as to be barely mentioned in books on architecture, the Foursquare house is an American icon of the early 20th century. From about 1900 into the1930’s it was one of the most common types of house built in this country, but only relatively recently has its importance and distinctive character been recognized.

At least 52 of these houses still stand in Hopewell Borough today, most of them probably built between 1910 and 1930. Only 11 are shown on the 1912 Sanborn Map.

So why are there so many of these houses? What are their defining features? Could you buy one from Sears? Who built them and lived in them, and what does that tell us about early 20th century Hopewell?

About the Speaker
Ian Burrow is a semi-retired archaeologist. He was born, raised and educated in England. After working there for 10 years as a professional archaeologist, he emigrated to the United States in 1988 to continue his archaeological career in New Jersey and surrounding states. He serves on the Board of the Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum (among other things).

A Hopewell Valley Heritage Week event

Hopewell Public Library Speaker Series
Co-sponsored by the Hopewell Valley Historical Society and The Hopewell Museum

REGISTER HERE ONLY for the on-line virtual presentation over Zoom.

You also can attend this event in person at the Hopewell Presbyterian Church

​Click here for more information on the event

Image: Hopewell Foursquare in Hopewell c1900 [Audrey Jones]

Organized by

Preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the Hopewell Valley.