Architectural Styles

During the late 19th Century more than three quarters of the homes were owner-occupied. The distinctive Victorian character of these dwellings was enhanced by decorative millwork usually applied to the front porches. As the 20th Century progressed, new housing reflected changes in architectural styles. Bungalows were built among the Victorian cottages, but the essential character of the neighborhood did not change.

Old Sixth Ward demonstrates five main architectural styles.

Gulf Coast Colonial / Greek Revival

(1850-1890) These houses are usually five bay cottages with a full-length front porch tucked in under the main roof line. This style of house is predominantly found along the Gulf coast from Florida to Texas. The style represents an adaptation of the antebellum Greek Revival architecture popular in the northeast to the semi-tropical climate.

Folk Victorian

(1870-1910) These houses represent a vernacular attempt to adapt the Victorian architecture to the gulf coast climate. The houses featured locally milled porch posts and gingerbread. In many instances the Folk Victorian house was actually a Gulf Coast Colonial cottage draped or altered with later Victorian elements.

Queen Anne

(1880-1910) These houses are noted for their prominent gables, variety of shingle treatments, ornate factory-made millwork, abundance of stained-glass windows, and tall roof lines. These houses reflected a national trend in architecture that took the country by storm at the end of the 19th century.

Classic Revival

(1895-1920) These houses are characterized by simple Greek-inspired columns, restrained exterior ornament, and wide roof overhangs. The period during which they were built is marked by the decline of Victorian exuberance and a new found interest in the antiquities of Greece and Rome.

Bungalow

(1900-1940) These houses reflect a new utilitarian trend in architecture. Bungalows were noted for their prominent porches, lack of entry foyers, and perfectly proportioned rooms.

If you have pictures, comments, corrections or information to add, we would love your contribution. Please reach out to us at: historic@old6ward.org