Welcome to the Washtenaw County, MI

Greek Revival Architecture Tour

Greek Revival architecture is recognized as America's first national architectural style. Between 1825-1860, Greek Revival architecture was one of the most popular styles embraced by settlers who strongly identified with the Greek ideas of democracy and independence. During the early decades of the 19th century many towns adopted Greek names such as Utica, Athens, Ypsilanti, and Syracuse.

In Washtenaw County, Greek Revival architecture was most evident between 1820 and 1865. The style is expressed primarily in houses, but some churches, schools, and commercial buildings contain Greek Revival features. Characteristics of this style consist of a rectangular shape, a medium to low pitched gable roof, and clapboard covered exteriors. Other common features include broken or full pediments at the gable ends, frieze boards, corner boards or pilasters, round or square columns, six-over-six double-hung rectangular windows, and elegant door surrounds.

A glossary of terms and house types can be found here.

Due to the amount of sites available to view and the geographic area covered, there are additional sites which were not included in the driving directions; keep this in mind when planning your tour.

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