This is an outstanding example of the transitional house type known as American Foursquare. Popular from the 1890s to the 1930s, it was quite basic, with a square design, two or two-and-a-half stories high, with four large rooms to a floor. Examples range from plain vernacular to the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired Prairie School to Craftsman, with some even incorporating Folk Victorian elements.
The Foursquare style was also a popular mail-order style, especially common in neighborhoods located near rail lines, as was the case in the Exley community. Sears and Aladdin were the two leading companies doing mail-order houses. I don’t know if this is a mail-order example, or if it was built by a local carpenter.
This is my grandmothers house
Wonderful house. Does she know anything about its history, Peyton?
This house is a particular favorite. Love the simple and elegant design. Enjoyed the brief history and background.
Up here in Gwinnett County, Developer Jim Cowart made these styles of houses from brick in Peachtree Corners and the Realtors referred to them as “5-4 and a door,” that is, five windows on top, four on the bottom with a door in between.” Now that style has spread all over Gwinnett. He built them on spec, and they sold like hotcakes, and re-sell well today. –Elliott Brack
On Thu, Oct 19, 2023 at 7:49 AM Vanishing Georgia: Photographs by Brian
It’s a very adaptable and utilitarian style and I’m not surprised it’s still in such wide usage. By the way, Tim Anderson said to tell you hello. I visited the Herald-Leader when I was in Fitzgerald recently.
Up here in Gwinnett County, Developer Jim Cowart made these styles of houses from brick in Peachtree Corners and the Realtors referred to them as “5-4 and a door,” that is, five windows on top, four on the bottom with a door in between.” Now that style has spread all over Gwinnett. He built them on spec, and they sold like hotcakes, and re-sell well today. –Elliott Brack