The Steeples of Old New England

The steeple was one of the first art forms to be cultivated in this new land, and it became one of early America's principal artistic achievements. The Steeples of Old New England traces the history of these steeples and of the Yankee society that build them. It covers the period of 1701 through 1860 and provides a wealth of information for anyone interested in reading about or visiting these historical landmarks. The book is also a valuable resource for students of history, architecture, and religion. There is an abundance of illustrations: some are taken from the documents of the actual time period, and some are full color photos taken by professional photographers and the author himself. A comprehensive directory and bibliography are at the end of the book.

From Chapter 6, The Years of Yankee Glory 1801 – 1830,
Lovely steeples were blooming everywhere — on greens near shores, meadows and mountains — long before New England's famous literary period . . .
This splendid period of steeple building was fostered and invigorated by the general enthusiasm of the time. Despite the War of 1812, economic seesawings, and social contentions, the Yankees prospered with the development of what was almost a self-sustaining nation in itself. Increasingly, the power of New England streams which once had been diverted to saw logs and grind grain became directed to turn spindles, lathes and an amazement of new machines.

Purchase The Steeples of Old New England