The Word on Wednesday: Carpenter Gothic

The Carpenter Gothic architectural style is hands down my favorite type of Victorian architecture. It is commonly found in rural areas of the U.S. and is a distinctly American style, although originating centuries before from the great Gothic cathedrals of medieval Europe.

It was revived in America first in churches primarily made from stone but later as humble homes made of wood (thus the term “Carpenter”). You may have heard of the classic painting “American Gothic”? The title of that painting actually refers to the home in the background with its telltale Carpenter Gothic features, located in Iowa.

Honestly, I love the style because it is so fun and fanciful, and in the case of the Oak Bluffs campground cottages in Martha’s Vineyard, absolutely adorable.

The tell-tale signs of Carpenter Gothic architecture are the pointed arch doors and windows, steeply pitched roofs and gables, intricately carved porch details, gingerbread and bargeboards (that’s the flat scrolled trim attached to the gable – I had to look it up!)

Although the Oak Bluffs homes are shingled, many Carpenter Gothic homes have board and batten siding.

I admire the detail in these homes so much. Can you imagine anyone putting that much effort into construction today? At the time these cottages were built (mid-to-late 1800’s) the fancy scrollwork and trim were made possible by an abundance of wood and steam-powered saws, and it was a home-style available to someone of even humble means.

Once you know the major features of Carpenter Gothic style,  you can’t miss it. Keep your eyes open, and in the meantime, I leave you with this last photo – you can’t help but smile looking at it!

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Deb Cohen

My name is Deb Cohen, and I am a lifelong resident of Connecticut, a lover of all things historic and New England, and a realtor who helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals and dreams. When I’m not working, I enjoy life with my husband, our two adult children, and our two rescue pups. Renovating and decorating our historic home, dating to 1800, is another favorite pastime.